Twist Open Iris Storage Box

Who doesn't love a good ol' iris mechanism? This container features an iris mechanism that smoothly opens and closes with a simple twist. No hinges, or latches—just pure mechanical elegance! Perfect for storing small valuables, trinkets, or everyday items, this design is both functional and satisfying to use.

Assembly

• Put 5 M3x20 screws through the top of the lid. The head of the screw will be on the flat side of the top piece.

• Put the 5 leaf models on the screws and rotate them to the closed position. They have a clearance hole, so the M3 screw should pass through. If there is a lot of resistance, it may be necessary to pass a screw through the hole a couple times to file down the imperfections in the holes.

• Align the ring gear with the teeth of the leaves and slide it on. Each tooth on the leaf should have a corresponding gap on on the ring gear.

• Align the top assembly with the bottom so that it will slide onto the bottom piece of the container. Keep even pressure on the top while pressing it down onto the bottom. As the top assembly is bottoming out, the screws will be forced up.
   

• Turn the ring gear assembly clockwise, keeping the lid closed, until it can no longer turn. The screws should be aligned with the holes on the bottom piece. (Note: it may be helpful to thread a screw into each of these holes before final assembly). I torqued the screws until they were tight, then backed them of about half a turn as needed until the mechanism was operating smoothly.