For my 3D-printed “impossible object”, I chose to create gyro keychains. My gyro keychains are comprised of four rings of descending sizes that interlock cocentrically. This allows the smaller rings to rotate freely.

1. I first found the file for the keychain on Thingiverse.
2. Then, I printed one gyro with basic settings (ex. layer height: 0.2 mm, wall thickness 2mm, and infill density of 20%) using PLA.

1. After printing, I made sure each ring could rotate freely. After verifying the chosen setting’s viability, I proceeded to print three more using PLA.
2. For my 2nd 3D-printing process, I chose to try SLA, which utilizes resin.
   1. The gyro printed with resin posed a new challenge.
   2. The gaps between the rings were fuzed together with resin that had not fully cured.

1. After printing all five pieces, I packaged them into plastic egg containers with a paper slip.

 

COST:

1. PLA filament ~ $20 / kg
2. Resin ~ $25 / kg