Tensegrity Bowl

Tensegrity derived from tension and integrity, in that the integrity of the structure is derived from the balance of tension not compression

In this particular model a bowl is suspended from three points and retained in place by a single central tether that tensions and stabilises the model.

Due to the method and position of the attachment minor movement of the bowl is expected if the model is moved which will be more exaggerated if tall objects are placed in the bowl.

Print Details

Filament: PLA (red, black & grey), although any colour to suit personal taste may be used.

Layer Quality: 0.15mm

Infill: Support arms 100%, Bowl and base 30% Cubic Subdivision.

Wall Line Count: 4

Base Adhesion: Support arms & Base - Skirt,  Bowl - Raft

No supports required.

Files orientated for printing directly.

Post Processing

It may be necessary to clear out the holes in the bowl and central hole in the base with a 1mm drill bit.

Test fit the support arms in the slots on the base and if necessary sand or file for a snug fit.

Supplies

Fishing line or Brass wire ~0.3(dia) mm

Plastic Adhesive

Clear Varnish

M2 x 6mm self tapping screws - Qty 4

Assembly

Tie a knot in the end of three lengths of line/wire.

Feed the line/wire through the off centre hole in the bottom of the bowl and feed it up through the hole that runs up the wall of the bowl and pull it tight.

Repeat the process for the remaining line/wires.

Partially insert an M2 x 6mm screw in to the off centre hole in the base.

Apply adhesive to the slot and with the base on a flat surface firmly push the support arm into the slot removing any excess adhesive.

Feed the line/wire up through the bottom of the base through the central hole and through the central hole in the bowl and tie a knot.

Slide the base support onto the line/wire between the base and the bowl.

Pull and tighten the line/wire and wrap one turn clockwise around the screw and tighten the screw to hold the line/wire in place.

Partially insert a M2 x 6mm screw in to the hole at the top side of the support arm.

Pull one of the side line/wires over the top of the groove of the support arm pull it in to the slot the form a clockwise loop around the screw.

Lightly tighten the screw.

Repeat the process for the remaining line/wires.

Adjust and tighten all the line/wires to equalise the vertical positioning of the bowl.

Remove the base support.

Apply a dab of clear varnish to the screw and line/wire and allow to cure before cutting any excess line/.wire.