Flower Box

thingiverse

Twist the ring to open and close. This is the result of my attempts to improve the Iris Box and the Iris Ball. One thing led to another and the iris mechanism went away completely to be replaced by leaves. There was a lot of learning in this project. Main lesson was that tolerances are key. You have to print this at 0.1mm layer resolution or better or you will spend a lot of time sanding. Trust me, I tried. Unlike my other designs, I went through a proper prototype process and printed everything out to make sure it works before posting. Also, no more printed pins. Printed pins and I are not on speaking terms any more. See it in action: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R0EIR5Jl09A .STEP files are included on the off chance someone feels like adding some embellishments. I'll send out the Solidworks files on request (ver. 2014). Instructions I strongly recommend using helper disks on the Leaf and on the nubs of the Ring and Bottom. Everything can print without supports except for the Bottom piece. There are two versions of the Bottom, one with built in breakaway supports (that works really well) and one without (if you want to use your own support method). You will need 16 M3x10 SHCS (socket head cap screws) to connect everything. Tap the screws into the parts and then trim off any burrs that occur around the holes before assembling. Before completely assembling, make sure all of the parts move freely relative to one another. A little lubrication does a lot to make things work smoothly. Order of assembly is as follows: Attach Leaf to Gear with 1 screw (4 times) Attach Leaf/Gear to HoldDown with 2 screws (4 times) With all 4 Leaf/Gears in the full open position, twist the Ring onto the HoldDown until completely seated. With 4 screws attach the Bottom to the HoldDown. If the gear mesh is too tight, sand the bottom of the Ring. If the ring is too tight between the HoldDown and the Bottom, sand the top of the Ring.