Summary

I thought I was done making Tensegrity models, but this makes #6!

This is a variation (or remix if I will) of one of my other tensegrity models I made, which you can also find here on Thingiverse. Link below:

https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:5736489

The video that accompanies the previous triangle tensegrity model, which this version heavily follows, gives an in-depth assembly procedure for the standard tensegrity base used on this model. Here is a link to the original Triangle Tensegrity construction prior to the cut.

https://youtu.be/7riN6lY2WMQ

Video link for the modification into the Magnetic Version, once the base model is completed:

https://youtu.be/F6zaLyRFvxI

I found some strong magnets at Harbor Freight and was itching to use them. They are quite strong, kinda SCARY STRONG for how small they are! The magnets I used had a 0.315" diameter and are 0.077" thick. Here is a link to where I got them:

https://www.harborfreight.com/10-piece-rare-earth-magnets-67488.html

After I got the standard tensegrity triangle assembled and leveled to my liking, I went against my gut feeling and cut the center support string in the middle (everything quickly collapsed, deep sigh).

Then I installed the “magnet retainers” to the 10 lb fishing line using the “magnet mini pins” from the print files.

Once the distance between the adapters was correct (approximately 3/16", but distance may vary depending on magnets used) I firmly pushed the “magnet mini pins” in place with pliers to set the taper against the fishing line tightly, locking the retainer in position.

I then added a dab of Loctite Gel Control Super Glue to the backside of the magnet to make sure it doesn't EVER come loose, these magnets are strong & tiny so I didn't want to risk it… I use this glue for my pool cue tips and it's great stuff!

In the photos you will find an exploded view of all the components for reference.

I'm not going to lie, the spacing of the magnets is pretty touchy, it took me a few tries to get it right. Patience was running out and almost gave up, but then it happened, it worked! It is seriously too cool.

Something I would do differently next time would be to use ‘spider wire’ for the middle string. From my fishing experience this fishing line has ZERO stretch, I was running into some annoying elasticity issues with the monofilament line I used for the completed model in the pictures.

If you print this model and fight the short-term stress getting it to work like I did, please post a Make. I'd really like to see it.

Please look around at the other models I have here on Thingiverse. I also post some cool models to www.printables.com Here is that page:

https://www.printables.com/@SanfordPrime_562474

Also, Lots of Videos of these models and others on my YouTube Channel. If you like seeing videos like this, or are just curious what I'm up to, please subscribe. It really helps me out! Link to the Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6KTVNd0OiQKgjw8yDrGeWw

Thank you for checking it out!

Enjoy!