Floating Hexagon - Magnetic Tensegrity - 3D Printed
Introduction: Floating Hexagon - Magnetic Tensegrity - 3D Printed
... a new contribution to the topic "Tensegrity".
The main difference to the other models is that the tension in the middle is not created by a thread but by the attracting force of two magnets. Therefore the top is of course not as loadable but the object all the more interesting for the eye! It's magic!
After all - so I show in my video - the construction can carry light objects. The closer the magnets are to each other, the more weight the plate can carry. Please note that if the magnetic tension is too high - for example, if the magnets are too close together - this can soon lead to the printed parts bending. Note, this object is primarily intended to impress the eye and not necessarily to carry weight!
The magnetic attraction (that alone is surprising at first ... one would expect the opposite to be the case) - besides the four threads connecting hexagon plate and base - builds the tension structure in this object. It's a bit magical how the physical conditions create a tension that makes this object a unit - a perfect unit. At first sight a bit confusing ... you have to look twice to understand the principle.
Print files
* FH_top.stl
* FH_midpart.stl (2x)
* FH_base.stl
* FH_magnetholder.stl (2x)
Remark: As all parts are designed to fit very precisely, it may happen that you have to rework one or the other part a bit with sandpaper and/or cutter due to different dimensional accuracy of the printers and the different behavior of the filaments.
Supplies
Magnets:
* I used two small 8x3mm neodymium magnets. Unfortunately they are only available in larger quantities, like for example
* https://www.amazon.de/dp/B072FDBHBF/ref=cm_sw_em_r...
Tension strings:
* I took a nylon string Ø 0,35mm
* https://www.amazon.de/dp/B07HLF6SYY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp...
Tools:
* Precision mechanics pliers
* 2 small pieces of plywood 20x20x3,5mm (can also be something else in the thickness of max.7mm)
* rubber band
* small screwdriver
* superglue
* cutter
* sandpaper
Print Supports:
* None. All parts can be printed as oriented in the stl files.
Infill:
* FH_top.stl: 10% (the top should be as light as possible!)
* FH_base.stl: 15%
* other parts: 60%
Step 1: Overview: Tools and 3D Printed Parts
Such or similar tools are very helpful when adjusting the nylon threads later on.
Step 2: Top and Middle Part
For the first step you need "FH_top.stl" and the color matching "FH_midpart".stl.
The arrow at the bottom is there to align the middle part correctly. 807
You should place them as shown in the first picture!
To ensure a good fit, the fitting accuracy can be very tight. It may be necessary to correct the fit with a cutter knife or sandpaper. Then apply superglue. For a correct alignment you should use a stop angle!
Step 3: Base and Middlepart
For the next step you need "FH_base.stl" and the color matching "FH_midpart".stl.
As in the last step, the arrow at the bottom is there to align the middle part correctly. You should place them as shown in the first picture!
To ensure a good fit, the fitting accuracy can be very tight. It may be necessary to correct the fit with a cutter knife or sandpaper. Then apply superglue. For a correct alignment you should use a stop angle!
Step 4: Attaching the Magnet Holders
Take the color matching "FH_magnetholder.stl". Check if it can be attached to the center part without problems. Then put a drop of superglue into the square recess and press it to the middle part.
Do the same with the counterpart!
Step 5: Attaching the Magnets
Put a drop of superglue in the magnet holder. Take a magnet and press it in. It should almost "disappear".
Do the same with the second magnet.
Attention: With the second magnet, you must make sure that it attracts the other magnet before gluing it in! 438