Here is my 3x3 Rhombic Triacontahedron that is finally done. I made a topic about this a long time ago while this puzzle was in progress. I never got around to finishing it and decided that today would be the day. So here it is!

This puzzle is stickered with 15 different colors. Opposite sides are stickered with the same color. Also, opposite faces have the same cuts, however, the pattern is mirrored. (I will have to show this when I make the video.

Here is a link to the work in progress thread: http://twistypuzzles.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=10839&p=121251#p121251

I have always wondered where the cuts would come from on a 3x3x3 version of this puzzle. this seems like the most efficient way.

Very nice! It looks great!

I have a plan to make it but I don''t have enough time.
Good job xsportx!

That looks very cool. Well done!

Nice!
What is its diameter?
The edge length or the original 3x3x3?

From face to opposite face this puzzle measures about 71 mm.

The edge length of one of the diamonds is 27mm

I used a type A 3x3 core for the puzzle. The other pieces were cast with Alumilite Black. This was one of my first casting projects.

Great work, it looks very clean.

Dave

What a beautiful shape it is ! I love it ! X-D
So nice works, xsportx!

this puzzle made me logged in and post a reply. great 3x3 mod!!!! 10stars and a sun.

You expanded one piece width per each face, didn't you? I see that this puzzle is more bigger than 3x3x3 standard size

I love this puzzle.
And i love how the centers are still square

Wow! Question, how do you design a puzzle in cad with very complicated geometry?

The faces were extended about half a piece width per face. This is actually how I made the center caps. I took corners from a 3x3, cut them in half, and glued them to the standard caps.


I may not be the best person to the answer this question. But for this puzzle, I started with a cube and built each side up to create a dodecahedron. I then truncated the edges of that dodecahedron, similar to how you create a rhombic dodecahedron from a 3x3. If you would like an easier way, I remember that someone kindly posted stl files of various shapes a while back.

What is your definition of "complicated geometry"?

For me it's anything that is not simple extrusions along the x, y, and z directions.

That was what I was thinking when I said complicated geometry.

Do you mean just constructing complex shapes, or making mechanically complex puzzles?
There are a few tutorials around the internet for making things like dodecahedrons and icosahedrons, you just have to search for them. Most "complex" shapes can be made from a dodecahedron or icosahedron through cutting down and extending, so just start by making one of these and then go from there.

This might be a little off topic from the thread, so it may be better to continue this discussion through PM's instead.