Flat Snap Box

What started out as a fun little ‘proof of concept’ design challenge that I thought would take five minutes ended up being a seven-day saga and six different versions.

Essentially this is a box, 5 x 5 x 5 CM with sides that feature an ornamental lattice design, and while it looks pretty basic the design is kind of crazy.

First and foremost it prints entirely flat on the build plate… Not entirely exceptional by itself though. Secondly it is comprised of 24 identical modules that all interlock seamlessly. Changing one module changes 48 different edges simultaneously, and it's these edges that combine to create joints and interlocks that allow the six sides to fold and lock together into a stable box.

You can just as easily unsnap these locks and open the lid of the box, or make it entirely flat again. Like I said this is supposed to be a proof of concept and I succeeded. Basically I just wanted to make a one-piece single-orientation box that used thin layers as flexible hinges and interlocks that printed horizontally and could be used over and over again without breaking or wearing out.

Let me know what you think.

2024-08-12 Update: added “VINES” variation.

2024-08-21 Update: added “BUBBLES” variation.

2024-08-25 Update: added “BONES2” variation.