This image shows the flexibility of the boards, as each piece hinges 180 degrees on both sides.
An overhead view of the assembled board.
This image shows the flexibility of the boards, as each piece hinges 180 degrees on both sides.
Folding Chess Board
Company: Personal Project (2020)
Software: AutoDesk Fusion 360
After working on the Outdoor Chess Set, there were some requests for a chess board. Initially I did not think there could be a 3D printed solution that added anything a traditionally manufactured board could offer, but after thinking on it for a while I formed an idea for a board that could be folded in multiple ways. This design providing a full-size playing surface that can be folded up into a small, portable configuration.
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This project provided an interesting challenge when designing the hinged connection between pieces. They had to be shaped just right to allow rotation in both direction, strong enough to hold everything together, and have enough clearance to snap on and allow movement without popping off.
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The final result is a really nice, sturdy board that feels very good to flip out and fold back together.
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The model files for an early version can be found on Thingiverse here.
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After completing my initial design, I realized I could modify the components with designs that would really really enhance the look of the board and create interesting patterns - especially when combined with different color themes
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Some examples of the possible combinations can be seen below.
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The model files can be found on Thingiverse here.
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