Tipping Point- Balancing Chess Set

Tipping Point is a fun new take on the ancient game of chess, incorporating a board that tilts with every move. This feature allows the combination of classic and physics-based tactics to create a challenge unlike any other! 

Design

This model combines my love for chess and 3d-printing into one fun package! The board rests on a central pillar with a pivot point on top. It has a concave slot that secures it to the stand while allowing free motion. There are "feet" located in each of the four corners to stabilize the board as it is suspended in the air. This gives a better tilting motion, and reduces how often the board tips over. When a piece is moved, the board tilts as the center of mass changes. This adds a layer of strategy to every move. 

How To Play

Make sure the pieces are in the correct spots. There is notation provided on the side of the board to assist this. This rendition of chess is designed to have more chaotic, shorter games while still allowing for strategy. The traditional rules of chess apply, including the rule that states tipping over your king counts as resignation. This is why it is important to make sure your king does not fall off the board. If the board falls completely on your turn, you loose. The board must hold for 5 seconds before it is your opponent's turn.  (As if you needed chess to be harder) If you don't want to utilize the balance function, you can simply place the board on the table, and the feet that acted as weights now work as feet. Good luck!

Print Settings

Board-

0.16 or 0.2 Layer height

15% Gyroid infill

Print facedown

Pieces-

0.2 mm layer height

5% infill Grid or Gyroid

Supports on Knight only

Specifications

Board size 170x170 mm

Each square is 20x20mm

Stand is 90mm tall

Most of the testing was done with real prints, but the final adjustments were COM analysis-based. Enjoy the model!

*some photos may be from earlier versions