Remix-A-Stix: A Remixable Parametric Joint System

Remix-A-Stix are a set of parametric ball joints, sockets, and connectors, compatible with Mini 13/Lucky 13 ball joints (via 6mm ball joints) and Gunpla accessories (via 3mm pegs & holes). Dimensions and tolerances can be remixed using the Geometry Nodes modifiers in the source Blender (.blend) file. This also includes a procedurally generated sprue system to ensure adhesion of small parts and corners to the build plate during printing, while sparing makers from deburring excess brim material: Just snip the sprues and snap together your parts! Runners of multiple parts help you build up a larger collection for your creations.

Print Settings

Combined with an external brim, the sprue system helps sharp corners and small parts stay adhered to the build plate. Afterwards, use flush cutters to remove excess material, just as you would for a model kit.

If parts fail to fit despite your printer's calibrations, adjust the tolerance parameters in the Blender file. The preset values have been tested on a modified Ender 3 Pro (Direct Drive, BLTouch, and E3D Revo CR). Because individual parts are small, you can adjust, print, and test relatively quickly compared to larger test prints.

PETG is recommended for wear resistance and pliability.

• Material: PETG
• Layer Height: 0.16mm
• Supports: No
• Brim: Yes
• Infill: 15%

Remixing

You are encouraged to remix these parts for use in your own creations. For example, you can change connector lengths and diameters to generate new proportions for action figures, or adjust tolerances to accommodate your 3D printer. Simply configure parameter values in the source Blender file provided.

Remix-a-Stix are meant to be remixed and used. Please let me know if you use any of these elements in your own designs!

Acknowledgements

The dimensions of the ball and socket joints draw reference from Soozafone's excellent Mini 13 joints. However, no actual geometry from Mini 13 is used, since each part is generated procedurally using Blender's Geometry Nodes.

The dimensions of the peg and hole connections reference the 3mm diameter connections commonly used in Gunpla (Gundam plastic model) kits, including the eponymous customization system from Bandai's 30 Minute Missions line.

Changelog

• June 6, 2023
  • Added new pictures.
  • Added pre-sliced gcode and PrusaSlicer (.3mf) file.
  • Fixed bugs in the sprue system.
  • Adjusted default tolerances for the socket-shaft connection.