Catan Number Token Basket / Box, Print-in-Place, 4 sizes - Settlers of Catan, Etc.

UPDATED 2025-04-07:     I made a hybrid of this design and the one listed below. The new design is the lightest of the three designs and incorporates positive elements of the other two. Here is the link:     

These are baskets/carriers/boxes for Settlers/Seafarers of Catan number tokens. They come in four capacities (the quantity of tokens that each will hold depends on the thickness of your number tokens – over the years the thickness has varied). They are print-in-place and require virtually no post processing (other than working the hinge a few times). They are lightweight, but sturdy. The clasp or latch is secure, but easy to release (I dropped one full of tokens, and then threw it around, and the latch stayed secured - it finally opened when it bounced on the ground after it hit a bookcase). In other words, accidentally dropping it usually will not cause it to break open.

The capacities/sizes (referring to the height of a stack of tokens) are: 61mm, 42mm, 38mm, & 16mm (a small holder for seafarers expansion tokens, to keep them separate). Measure your stack of tokens to determine the best size match.

There are two hinge versions, based on the tolerances of the hinge pin and socket, 0.20mm and 0.30mm (differences in the radii). If your 3D printer is dialed in, you should have no trouble with the 0.20mm versions (my preference). The side spacing between the hinge pieces is 0.15mm per gap for the 0.20mm version, and 0.25mm for the 0.30mm version.

The models are laid out in the proper printing orientation. After printing, the hinge may be a little stiff, or partially stuck together. Simple hold the model in an upright orientation bend down the pieces while pushing up on the hinge, and this will break free the mechanism. Open and close the carrier lid a few times and it should function well. If your hinge is fused, try printing the 0.30mm version. The latch for the lid releases by lightly pulling out the latch and lifting it. It is very easy to work.

Background:

About 4 ½ years ago, I designed a holder for Settlers of Catan number tokens. Then, a few years ago, I updated the design and added additional sizes. Those models are here:

I have been interested in print-in-place hinges, and wanted to see if I could improve upon my previous token holder design. My design goals were to:

• Incorporate a print-in-place hinge pin;

• Use less filament for the same capacity holder;

• Remove any need for supports;

• Remove all post-processing; and

• Make the clasp/latch secure but easier to use.

I was pleasantly surprised that these goals were achieved. The hinge is durable and works great. Between the four sizes there is an average filament savings of ~15%. There is no need for supports of any kind, or a brim, or raft. The print is pretty much ready to go right off the printer, and the lid latch is secure. Also, the new design is more streamlined and has a smaller footprint (less bulky).

Printing at 100% infill, with 2 skirt loops, and at 0.12 layer height, the models require 8.78g, 10.75g, 11.23g, and 13.26g of filament (16mm - 61mm capacities, respectively).