Snap Bricks

myminifactory

This is my contribution to the #beyondthebrick design competition. My goal is to craft a system that empowers anyone to swiftly and effortlessly start building an extensive array of things. This entails creating something simple and easy to assemble, yet remarkably versatile, with as few unique components as possible. Of course, it also had to be easily 3D printable. The pieces utilize a system of small protrusions and registration points that they interlock into. To initiate building, take any two pieces and snap them together. Engage one set of protrusions for a freely rotating joint or use two to connect the pieces at a fixed angle. I plan to continue adding more parts of varying lengths and with different numbers of connectors (suggestions are welcome), but even just a few simple parts can create quite a variety of geometric shapes and sculptures. In fact, some of my personal favorite objects are made with just a handful of identical components. Notes on piece names: The format of the names is (piece type) - (length): "0, 45, 90": an array of connectors allows for straight, 45 degree, and 90 degree connections; "linear": two sets of protrusions allow for straight (in-line) connection. These pieces enable a greater range of motion for a free-spinning joint; "bar": no connector, just registration points