Polyhedron components with symmetric(unsigned) hinges. Also, now with octagon.

The previous kit http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4934 had larger facets and signed snaps, and assembly was a puzzle. This script resolves these problems by using only one symmetric hinge. I adapted a concept from http://www.thingiverse.com/twotimes to design these hinges.

These parts are snap and dimensionally compatible with other things tagged "Elements". They are also useful starting blanks for building up more Element-compatible things.

If you noticed that this is a duplicate of the "circular elements" thing, you're right. I posted renderings separately for those who don't want to invoke OpenSCAD scripts.

For trippy patterns to get started, visit http://www.geometrycode.com/sg/archimedeans.shtml.

Print using a heated build plate.

The pieces have extra plastic to pin down the hinges: remove this with a razor knife. This will also rounds out the bottom of the hinge providing the full range of motion.

Since these snaps are unsigned, simply lay out your polyhedron design as if building out of folded paper. Keep either the top or bottom side of the printed piece oriented consistently so the snaps will line up properly.

http://www.thingiverse.com/Renosis built an epic polyhedron with the old kit. Hopefully this set will be easier to work with, but I haven't tested the triangles yet. I'm eager to see how larger forms look.

update : These hold together too well. Some of the snaps were damaged when I took apart the dodecahedron I'd made. This can easily be fixed by reducing the number of clips from 6 to 4. If you examine the script, there is a clear example of how to do this down toward the bottom where the triangular piece is defined. Let me know if you want me to render these and post them, or any other design modifications you might want.

note on hinge clearance : The hinges can sometimes be a little tight. Make sure the first layer isn't pressed too far into the build platform. A compressed first layer will propagate up and make part of the hinge wider, decreasing the clearance. These parts are designed to fit tightly and may require pliers to assemble. If all else fails, removing some of the pins on the hinges can make assembly easier.