The Impossible Puzzle Made Possible by FDM Printing

thingiverse

I created this brain teaser after witnessing a similar design by Mr. Puzzle. By 3D printing the puzzle, you'll instantly reveal its inner workings, rendering it no longer challenging for the maker. Nonetheless, your family and friends will surely be stumped. Unlike traditional wooden puzzles with glued joints, FDM printing produces seamless pieces that remain mysterious to those who don't comprehend the hidden mechanism. I deliberately crafted the holding compartment (cage) to securely contain a spark plug (available on Amazon at https://amzn.to/2slQRGe) or a 1/8" x 3" bolt/threaded rod (https://amzn.to/2IXsJFb or https://www.lowes.com/pd/Hillman-6-to-32-x-3-in-Phillips-Slotted-Combination-Drive-Zinc-Plated-Machine-Screws-5-Count/3035868 or https://www.lowes.com/pd/Hillman-1-8-in-x-3-in-Standard-SAE-Threaded-Rod/3127739). A 3" x 1/8" Toggle Bolt also works if you have one on hand. Metric equivalents are equally effective, and other objects can be used as well. The bottom of the contained object simply needs to fit into the 5mm hole at the bottom of the cage. Two 2mm steel rods (https://amzn.to/2H3PZeT), each measuring 35mm in length, securely keep the object trapped inside. The key to solving this puzzle lies within a small 2mmx5mm steel rod hidden inside, held firmly in place by a 1mmx3mm neodymium magnet (https://amzn.to/2IX71B2). During printing, the steel rods are inserted, becoming an integral part of the object. Further details can be found in the printing section. To release the contained spark plug or bolts, simply knock the puzzle against your hand or a hard surface, causing the 5mm steel rod to fall out. Without tilting the puzzle, carefully slide the free steel bar to the side and remove it by pulling it away from the puzzle while sliding it back into place. The object inside can now be freed. For more information, watch this video: https://youtu.be/dKaclSiJrHg