HyperCube - the folding shape-shifting origami cube

thingiverse

This is a 3D-printed version of the popular "origami cubes" that are made from paper and joined with paper flaps. They form connected shapes that can be folded in multiple ways. This thing has two types of cubes, with different hinges. All images are of the same configuration, made in both versions. You don't have to start as large, the popular "infinity cube" can be made with just 8 cubes. There are 6 different types of cubes 1 through 6, all shapes that I know can be built from these. SCAD files are included and can be modified to create additional cube types. The difference between the types is where the hinges are connected. Types 5 and 5a are mirror images of each other, all other cubes are symmetric ("left" and "right" versions are the same). The "H" cubes are connected with an H-shaped hinge that should be slightly flexible (don't print that hinge from PLA!) All cubes are easy to print without supports, they should be printed in any orientation where the hinges are on horizontal edges. The H-hinge is printed without supports, it needs to be strong and have good layer adhesion (this is not the best orientation, strength-wise, but the alternative needs a lot of supports). I printed all the hinges in PETG. The "H" cubes are easy to assemble, the hinges just click in place. They are easy to move, but they don't stay in an unfolded configuration very well. Also, if you observe the movement of the cobe when changing shapes, you'll see that the cubes pivot around the "wrong" point: the pivot points are inside the cubes, not at the corner. The "F" cubes have a flexible living hinge instead. That hinge must be printed with a flexible filament. The cubes themselves are printed in a different orientation: this time, it's easier to print with hinges on the vertical edges, hinges on the top edges are good too, but cube number 4 has to have one hinge on the bottom edge and this opening needs supports (put supports only at the very edge, otherwise they are a pain to remove). This cube is harder to assemble, you have to force the living hinges into the slots in the cubes (I secured them with a drop of superglue after inserting them, just in case). The "F" cubes don't like to stay folded, at least not until the hinges stretch a bit. On the other hand, they hold the open, unfolded, configurations, beautifully. They pivot around exactly the right point, too.