This “Knurled Nightcrawler” is part of a series of three textured articulating snakes.

See here for video: https://youtu.be/8fIhzqsQP_k

These textured articulating snakes use a unique print-in-place ovoid joint to create realistic snake movement. This joint type is stronger than the interlocking double ring joints used in many articulated designs, so this design is more suitable for use as a fidget or children’s toy.

The snakes are 54sm in length but will print easily on a 200mm x 200mm build plate.

Like a “ball and socket” joint, the oval-shaped ovoid from one segment is held in place by a similarly shaped socket in the neighbouring segment. Varying the relative dimensions of the ovoid and socket allows for precise control of the movement between each segment. In this design, lateral side-to-side movement is maximized, but rotation and up/down movement is slightly restricted. This more accurately mimics the “tone” and movement patterns of a real snake.

You may get some small adhesions between segments. Simply apply a bit of force to move the joint the first time, and it will be fine after that.

These models demonstrate some of the surfacing and texturing capabilities of nTopology.