Tactile puzzle cube for blind or color-blind cubers (Rubik's, etc)

Set of tactilely distinct, radially symmetrical glue-on tiles for Rubik's-style 3x3 puzzle cubes, pyraminx, etc. intended for blind, colorblind, or low-viz cubers. Printed in PLA. No supports needed.

I made this for a blind colleague of mine who owned a commercial tactile 3x3 cube, but wanted the smoother, faster action of a maglev speed cube. 

I made about 30 variants of the tiles, and we settled on the 5–6 that were the most tactilely discernible. I skipped the sixth (triangle) and left that side blank.

• Dome
• Eight Dots
• Large Circle
• Small Circle
• Large Sharp Circle with Center Point
• Triangle (if needed, or leave the sixth side blank)

All STL tile variants are included for download, but our recommended choices are in the “top 6” directory. 3MF files for the chosen tiles, glue guide, and case are also included. 

Designs were sized for this WeiLong maglev cube, but the tiles are compatible with any 3x3 cube. I added some to an original 1980s Pyraminx, too. The storage case and glueing alignment guide will be compatible with any 56mm cube (standard size for Gan, WeiLong, and other 3x3 cubes). Note: you may be able to scale all models proportionately in your slicer for different sizes of 3x3 cubes.

Glueing guidance. 

• I'd recommend sighted assistance for the glue-up, mainly due to the inaccessibility of the flat cube sides, but also because superglue is unforgiving. 
• I recommend glueing one side at a time. I used a toothpick to hold each tile in the alignment guide while applying the glue. Apply all nine tiles at once by placing the cube downward into the guide, and then flip the cube vertically and remove the guide before the glue has time to dry. Any extra squeeze-out will make sequential application inconvenient, so wipe the guide and wait for sufficient dry time.
• I use  control gel for most tasks like this. Warning: CA and other superglue fumes are hella toxic, so only use these in a well ventilated space. 

Please comment with any questions. Happy printing!

Released under noncommercial license, but I'm open to free licensing if you're a registered non-profit organization benefiting the disability community. Reach out.