Reconfigurable Puzzle Box / Christmas Ornament

thingiverse

This is a challenging puzzle box based on Kagen Sound's Rune Box and Derek Bosch's Rhombic Maze Burr. I combined the best elements of both to create a reconfigurable puzzle box that can be customized to suit different skill levels. By replacing the central 3x3 maze tile, you can adjust the number of moves required to open the box. There are numerous combinations ranging from simple to extremely difficult using the provided tiles. For gift-giving purposes, this allows you to set the difficulty level according to the recipient's puzzle-solving abilities or your personal preference. The box is designed to be easily reconfigurable, providing multiple puzzles in one. Three configurations are depicted, ranging from 17 moves (easy) to 71 moves (difficult). The size and shape of the box suggested a snowball to me, so I decided to mount it on a Christmas tree as a fun way to taunt those who cannot figure out how to open it. Gifts must fit inside a 36x36mm hole, although interior dimensions are larger. Exterior dimensions are 66x66x66mm. To assemble the box, follow these steps: 1) Print the necessary pieces and gather non-printed components: * 6 x outerface (the "Merry Christmas" face is optional and requires multi-extrusion) * 6 x innerface * 6 x slider * 6 x slider2 * 6 x nut trap * Minimum 6 x tile pieces (which can also be mirrored to produce more options) - I have uploaded a tile in Openscad to make it easier for users to create new ones. * 6 x M3 nut * 6 x M3x10 bolt * String/cord/ribbon 2) Assemble the frame: The six innerface pieces snap together to form a cube with slots that run perpendicular to those on adjacent faces. 3) Assemble the sides: Slide slider into slider2 for each face. If linear advance is not dialed in or there is elephant footing, sanding and trimming may be necessary to ensure a snug but smooth fit. CA the nut trap piece into the back of slider2. CA an M3 nut into the back of the nut trap, being careful not to let glue enter the threads. Slide the outerface piece onto slider. 4) Mount the sides: The sides slide into the slots on the inner cube face. Since the maze tile and bolt are not yet installed, the outface can slide freely up/down and left/right to enable assembly. Once all six sides are installed, ensure that they are centered on each face with alternating overlaps. 5) Install the maze tiles: Select or invent a pattern of tiles. One of the six tiles used must be an exit piece to make the box solvable. I recommend running the central slot parallel to the short side of the outer face to avoid overly simple configurations. Tiles are held in place by M3x10 bolts that screw into the nuts installed on step 3. Do not over-tighten, as the faces must slide freely. 6) Open the box, reconfigure, repeat. On a side note, if you feel inclined to tip me for my design work, please consider donating to the ACLU, Habitat for Humanity, Planned Parenthood, or any charity endorsed by GiveWell instead.