Scrabble - Modern take with self-centering/self-standing tiles

thingiverse

Major Update to all files 10/1/2019 I finally had a chance to update some key aspects of the original design. As you may recall, the first version was created using Microsoft 3D Builder, which I won't say much about except that it was a challenge. I've since taught myself enough Fusion 360 to make significant changes. The new designs are now complete and were built from scratch within Fusion 360, making future updates much easier. While working on the design, I also tweaked the letter tiles so they can be printed with high precision using a .4mm nozzle on a stock FDM printer. Simply place the tiles on their sides like you would on a table during gameplay. This allows the letters and point values to be printed with z-axis resolution instead of x/y resolution. I still need to redesign the cover for the game, as well as make changes to the ball bearing track and cut board. The new design will allow for inserting ball bearings after the board is fully assembled, then plugging the insertion hole with a small plug. I'm currently reworking this plug to ensure it fits perfectly. The benefit of these changes is that I've also been able to include a non-cut board option for those with larger print beds (over 400mm). This will give more users the flexibility they need to print their own game boards. A few years ago, I came across a custom Scrabble board design where the wooden tiles stood on their own without the need for a rack. The designer achieved this by making each tile into a small pyramid and routing out the game board to accept the tiles in a waffle-like pattern. Given that making it out of wood without a CNC would be extremely time-consuming, I opted to design the entire game for 3D printing. Unfortunately, I struggled with designing the board and tiles in a way that looked good without being too large. The small tile scores are particularly challenging to achieve from a typical FDM printer. About six months ago, I acquired a cheap resin printer and after some test pieces, I realized I could finally make the Scrabble board I had been thinking about at a scale equal to the real game, with readable parts. This is the first design iteration of that final game. Note: You will need access to both an FDM and a SLA printer to successfully print this game at the given scale. Each tile and insert file has the quantity needed within the file name. All board and cover pieces only require a single print for each. Tiles and Inserts should be printed on a resin printer to get maximum resolution and clarity of the letters and numbers. The four board pieces and four cover pieces can be printed with a traditional FDM printer.