Iris Box

A round box that opens like an iris when you turn the ring

One solid body, no colors. Works with every slicer.

Presets
Shape
mm
mm

At least a quarter of the diameter plus 13 mm: the top needs room for a 45-degree shoulder.

mm

Gap around the wedges, pins and ring. Raise it if the ring turns stiffly.

Assembled only changes the preview. Downloads always contain the print layout.

Label
Colors

Two example settings, each from two angles. These are 3D renders of the model this page generates, not photos of prints.

Iris Box, print layout (3D render)Iris Box, print layout, closer view from above (3D render)
Print layoutDiameter 80 mm · Height 40 mm
Iris Box, small 50 (3D render)Iris Box, small 50, closer view from above (3D render)
Small 50Diameter 50 mm · Height 26 mm

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About this generator

Turn the ring and watch the lid open from the middle: a box that is fun to open again and again.

How to use

  1. Pick the size and the number of wedges.
  2. Add a label for the side or the ring.
  3. Print the box upright, the ring plate down and the wedges flat, as exported.
  4. Lay each wedge on its rib with the pin up, then press the ring over the rim until it clicks. Turn it to open.

Printing tips

  • Print the ring and wedges in PLA with 3 walls; the pins carry the load.
  • If the ring is stiff, sand the pins lightly or raise Clearance by 0.05 mm.
  • A contrasting ring color makes the opening show well on video.

Helpful guides

Frequently asked questions

The ring won't snap on.

Inspect the rim and lip for first-layer flare or roughness and check alignment before pressing gently and evenly. Stop if it binds or cracks: the snap fit has not been physically tested. Do not heat or force the parts to make them fit.

How do I put the wedges in?

Turn the ring so that it is open, then place the wedges with their pins in the spiral slots before you press the ring down. Keep the box upright: wedges first on their ribs, pins up, then the ring.

Why isn't it print in place?

Separate printing avoids unsupported wedges above the deck and lets you inspect each part before assembly. This is an unprinted prototype: snap fit, friction and reliable motion still need physical testing and may require tuning for your printer.

Why is the opening not round?

It is a sliding iris, so the wedges move outward and form a star-shaped gap. The fixed circular throat limits the usable opening to (Diameter / 2 - 9.5) mm across: only 15.5 mm for Small 50, 30.5 mm at the default 80 mm, and 50.5 mm at 120 mm. Check your object against this throat, not the outside box diameter.

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