Rummikub Case

Overview

Purpose

A simple, support-free 3D-printable replacement case and lift-on lid designed to match the footprint and function of an original Rummikub tile container. The model is intentionally minimal: a rectangular case body (the case) and a two-part lid composed of two stacked cuboids that provide a precise inner fit and a clean outer seating surface. The design includes Rummikub lettering on the long sides of the case and on the top of the lid for authentic appearance and easy identification.

Design Goals

• Exact seating: lid seats cleanly on the case rim with a positive, repeatable fit.

• Support-free printing: geometry avoids overhangs and internal cavities that require supports.

• Simple assembly: lid simply placed on the case; no hinges, snaps, or fasteners required.

• Clear branding: legible Rummikub text on sides and lid, sized for typical FDM resolution.

Geometry and Lid

Case Body

• Basic shape: a single rectangular box with vertical walls and a flat bottom.

• Inner cavity: sized to accept the set of tiles; internal corners are slightly radiused to improve printability and reduce stress.

• Rim: a continuous top rim around the inner opening that the lid rests on; rim thickness and height are sized to give a stable seating surface.

Lid Construction

• Two-cuboid stack: the lid is modeled as two cuboids:

  • Inner cuboid: sized to fit inside the case opening with a small clearance so it drops into the cavity and is guided by the rim.

  • Outer cuboid: sits on top of the case rim and provides the visible top surface and seating area.

• Seating logic: the inner cuboid’s outer dimensions match the inner contour of the case rim so the lid rests on the rim via the outer cuboid while the inner cuboid prevents lateral movement.

• No mechanical fasteners: the lid is simply placed on the case; friction and the guided inner cuboid keep it aligned.

Slot and Clearance Strategy

• Clearance: the inner cuboid uses a nominal clearance to the case opening to allow for printer variance while still providing a snug fit.

• Edge treatment: all mating edges are chamfered or filleted slightly to reduce sharp contact and to make seating smoother.

Printing Recommendations and Materials

Support-Free Printing

• No supports required: the model is designed so all faces print without support when oriented as recommended.

• Recommended orientation:

  • Case: print with the open face up so the bottom is on the build plate and the walls grow vertically.

  • Lid: print with the outer face up or flat on the build plate so the inner cuboid and outer seating face are accurate and smooth.

• Layer height: 0.12–0.20 mm for a balance of detail and speed.

• Perimeters: 2–3 walls for rigidity.

• Infill: 10–25% for a lightweight but stable part.

• Brim: recommended for the lid if contact area is small to avoid lifting.

Material Choices

• PLA: recommended for ease of printing and dimensional stability.

• PETG: recommended if you want slightly tougher edges and better wear resistance on the seating surfaces.

• Flexible filaments: not required; avoid for the lid/case mating surfaces unless you intentionally want a softer fit.