Hoberman "Expandable" Sphere Kit Card

Overview:

This model has only three differing parts: A right and left arm/segment (1&2) and a four-point joint connector. Each arm has an extruded profile on each side which was made to allow the maker to differentiate between arms/segments. These will only connect to each other on the flat back side of each arm/segment.

This model also takes advantage of the use of your scrap filament for its hinges/connection method. All connections are also press fit into place and require no glue for assembly. Alternatively, you can also use a *soldering iron to further secure each connection but this is not entirely necessary for my model.

I'm aware there are existing Hoberman Spheres available on various websites but I aimed to make one similar to Siberk's Cuboctahedron style version on Thingiverse.

This kit has quite an assembly process so be ready to work with small parts, pliers, a flush cutter, screwdriver or small metal rod (used to press filament into place), filament bits and a hard surface. Total time for assembly was about 3 hours but expect a longer time if you struggle with small part assemblies.

What You Need for this Project:

Tools

• Pliers
• Flush Cutters
• Calipers for Filament Scraps (you can test fit and eyeball as well)
• Screwdriver or similar (something with a small metal tip)
• A hard surface
• (*Optional) Soldering Iron

Printed Kit Cards

• 1x - Main Ring 1
• 1x - Main Ring 2
• 2x - Mid Section 1
• 2x - Mid Section 2
• 2x - Triangle 1
• 2x - Triangle 2

Printing all these cards with yield 48 of each arm/segment for a total of 96 arm/segments and 24 4-Point Connectors.

See the attached PDF for assembly.

I hope you enjoy this new iteration of the Hoberman Sphere!

Design by 3DVJModels on MakerWorld (license: BY).