Hoberman Kinectic Sculpture

Hi All,

This project is inspired by the Hoberman mechanism, a fascinating engineering concept that allows structures to expand and contract smoothly. I’ve created a two-dimensional kinetic sculpture that can dynamically change its size, creating an engaging visual transformation as it moves.

All parts of the sculpture are 3D printed, with only the motor and electronics sourced separately.

Building this wasn’t easy — especially with my limited CAD skills — but the challenge made the journey even more rewarding. After a lot of trial, error, and learning, I’m proud to have brought it to life and happy to share the result.

Watching it transform is truly mesmerizing.

1. 3d Printer (I have FlashForge AD5X)
2. Stepper Motor 28byj 48
3. Stepper Motor Driver ULN2003
4. 5V Adaptor
5. 5.5mm Female connector
6. Arduino Nano
7. M3x 4 - 2 nos
8. M4x12 -1
9. Universal PCB
10. Wires

1. Files can be downloaded from https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/home/hoberman-kinetic-clock
2. R115 Arms print total 24, file contains 8 arms
3. Bolt and Nut - 36 sets
4. Linera Rail - 4
5. Linear Guide - 8
6. Wall Mount - 1
7. Main Body -1 ( needs supports)
8. Hand and Hand 2 - 1 each

All parts can be printed without support except the main body.

Steeper Motor may get heated over long operations, so I recommend printing only the main body using Petg. Rest can be PLA

1. Take 2 arms and place one over the other, then secure them using a bolt and snapfit nut
2. Make 12 sets
3. Now connect each by carefully placing the arms, till it forms a full circle
4. Test linkages by expanding and contracting

1. Since the linear rails are 3d printed, we need to sand down the sharp edges and elephant's foot
2. Optional to sand using 220 grit sandpaper
3. The guide and rail must be smooth
4. Replace snap nuts with Rails Guide to create " + "sign, as shown
5. Add the linear rails and then the main body
6. Everything should lock in
7. Test that the contraction and expansion still work with just one linkage
8. Apply some machine oil to the linkages and linear rails for smooth and easy movement

1. Using M3 scres and nut secure the stepper motor
2. I am a universal PCB with female connectors, soldered using a few wires (circuit attached)
3. Place the pcb using double-sided tape
4. Test with the code attached. This code has 10rpm, adjust it based on your liking

1. I have provided a wall mount cap,
2. Fit this on the wall, and then just slide the main body on it
3. If loose, secure with paper tape

Possible Issues / Tips

1. Motor can get heated, print the Main Body with Petg or other heat-resistant filaments
2. Removing supports from the main body can be difficult.
3. Please adjust the support setting and add a gap of 0.1
4. Bolts can be replaced by M4 X 6mm
5. If the linear rails' rods are loose, the mechanism can get locked or stuck

I have created several kinetic sculptures. Please check my other designs here on Instructables or on my Cults3d page

Please share your feedback/comments /suggestions