3D-Maze

The 3D Maze V2 - is based on an article from Scientific American September 1988.
The present design of the maze inclusive the „actuator“ structure is by me.

The object is to move the "actuators" from one corner to the other.
You have to figure out that a possible movement in one dimension can be blocked in the next one.

To build the machine you have to print out each wall (panel). I did this with the inside on the build plate to have a good outside structure. Make sure all „maze corridors“ are smooth. Alternatively you can print all panels, except the top one, at once, and then later glue the top on the box. For this you have to use supports and break those out later. Also you have to polish those openings that were filled by supports.

Presently the puzzle is not too difficult. Maybe in the future I will invest time to make it a bit "more challenging".

Print instructions

Category: Puzzles Summary

The 3D Maze V2 - is based on an article from Scientific American September 1988.
The present design of the maze inclusive the „actuator“ structure is by me.

The object is to move the "actuators" from one corner to the other.
You have to figure out that a possible movement in one dimension can be blocked in the next one.

To build the machine you have to print out each wall (panel). I did this with the inside on the build plate to have a good outside structure. Make sure all „maze corridors“ are smooth. Alternatively you can print all panels, except the top one, at once, and then later glue the top on the box. For this you have to use supports and break those out later. Also you have to polish those openings that were filled by supports.

Presently the puzzle is not too difficult. Maybe in the future I will invest time to make it a bit "more challenging".

Because i am new to 3D printing I will be glad for tips and suggestions.
Also i am saving money for a printer with more possibilities. So if you like please donate something.

Print Settings

Printer: Da Vinci Mini w

Rafts: No

Supports: Yes

Resolution: 0.3 mm

Infill: 10%

Notes:

I did have to fight warping, so use your own experience to prevent warping of the components during printing. I could not prevent warping completely but using a strong construction lamp to heat up the model seemed to improve the result.
I am glad for any tips on how to prevent warping. (I am new to 3D printing and so far brims did not prevent warping, and rafts damage the surface)

You need to print the actuators 3 times. To assemble the actuators you have to cut one, actuator leg temporarily. Assemble the structure inside the box and glue the cut after assembly.
Make sure all surfaces are as smooth as possible.

You have to print the knob 6 times.

Post-Printing

Assembly and hints

Final assembly is a bit tricky. Assemble the actuators and then glue the panels together one by one. Insert the actuator structure after you have glued 2 panels together.
In the end glue the knobs on the actuators in such way that a smooth movement is possible (try out before you apply glue).

When you build the box at once (alternative) plus the top panel. Assemble the actuators inside the box and then glue the top panel.

I sprayed the box with clear polyurethane lacker.

Overall, the smoother the parts the better it moves. At this moment the movement is a bit "sticky".

I am glad for tips on what glue to use. I used CA but then the bond is "for ever". It is impossible to disassemble without breaking it.

The final assembly

How I Designed This

Designed with OpenScad

Designed with OpenScad

Of course you are completely free to use my designs non commercially, but if…. you want to support me buy me a coffee. (click on the red text)