Puzzle Presents #2

Gift Box #2

This is the second gift box in a series that may all look the same on the outside but each have a secret way of opening. 

To open this box, pull outward on two opposing top ribbons which will release a catch on each side that allows the top of the box to be removed. Each ribbon is connected to a gear rack which in turn operates a spur gear located on each side of the rack which opens the opposing catches. Springs insure that the catches stay shut when not in use.  Its roughly 100mm x 100m x 80mm tall.

Print Instructions

The top prints in place as one part, none of the parts require supports. The bow and ribbons are printed separately and glued on. I printed all the parts in the orientation provided. I prefer the vertical orientation for the ribbons for a smoother surface finish, and they are much stronger printed in this orientation. I added helper pads to the ribbons to help keep them stable and adhered to the bed during printing. I printed everything at .2 layer heights but the box and ribbons could definitely be printed at a larger layer height without issue. I added helper pads to them to keep them stable during printing. For best results use a .4mm nozzle.

Built in Helper Pads

I designed four .4mm high pads(brims) on the end of each of the gears, on the box top. They will need to be removed with a exacto knife after printing, sorry but you can thank me later…  These pads are needed to better adhere the catch to the bed as the corners like to curl. 

Assembly

Be careful removing the top from the bed as the pinion shafts can be fragile, especially if you are printing with a silk that is weaker and has better bed adhesion. If your gears are stuck don't pull on them, try pushing out on the back of each gear rack with a screwdriver.  Don’t pull on the catches/gear racks until you glue the top ribbons on because they are not very strong until you do. 

I used Gorilla Glue (aff.) for gluing on the ribbons.  Put the glue in the middle and let it naturally spread out. 

If you don’t already own as set of these clamps (aff.) you should pick them up, they really help with gluing the ribbons on. 

Printed on the Muldex rep-rap IDEX printer.