Double compartment
I started working on a new project today, the 4-sun double compartment puzzle box. I prepared the materials and crafted the frame parts.
This double compartment puzzle box features 7-step mechanism on both the top and bottom. Both sides have identical movements, allowing the box to be opened from either side. The photo shows the side panels of the structural section, with grooves for the divider board carved precisely in the center. This placement demonstrates that the top and bottom of the box have an identical structure.
Therefore, the sliding panels on the sides and the mechanisms for the top and bottom lids are made exactly the same. This creates a very straightforward structure during the production process. In essence, it can be described as two standard seven-step secret boxes combined into one.
Most of these boxes are being made for the Hakone Market, but I am also producing a small number for my own inventory in the traditional yosegi and checkered patterns. The ones for the Hakone Market will feature slightly unique yosegi design variations this time.
I believe the most challenging and critical point in making this box lies in assembling the frame. It is essential to ensure that the top and bottom structures are assembled to be exactly identical.
Each box requires two types of sliding panels, totaling four panels, to be installed. Since the seven-step mechanisms for the top and bottom are crafted to identical dimensions, the frames where the panels are installed must also be perfectly identical. If not, the mechanism will not function correctly. The assembly of the puzzle box frame relies heavily on the craftsman’s sense of touch and precision, making it prone to misalignment. There are no pre-cut grooves or screws to ensure a perfect fit, so the assembly of the frame is a particularly critical step, requiring extra care and attention.
I have some errands to run tomorrow, so my work time will be limited, but I plan to continue making progress on this project.
This double compartment puzzle box features 7-step mechanism on both the top and bottom. Both sides have identical movements, allowing the box to be opened from either side. The photo shows the side panels of the structural section, with grooves for the divider board carved precisely in the center. This placement demonstrates that the top and bottom of the box have an identical structure.
Therefore, the sliding panels on the sides and the mechanisms for the top and bottom lids are made exactly the same. This creates a very straightforward structure during the production process. In essence, it can be described as two standard seven-step secret boxes combined into one.
Most of these boxes are being made for the Hakone Market, but I am also producing a small number for my own inventory in the traditional yosegi and checkered patterns. The ones for the Hakone Market will feature slightly unique yosegi design variations this time.
I believe the most challenging and critical point in making this box lies in assembling the frame. It is essential to ensure that the top and bottom structures are assembled to be exactly identical.
Each box requires two types of sliding panels, totaling four panels, to be installed. Since the seven-step mechanisms for the top and bottom are crafted to identical dimensions, the frames where the panels are installed must also be perfectly identical. If not, the mechanism will not function correctly. The assembly of the puzzle box frame relies heavily on the craftsman’s sense of touch and precision, making it prone to misalignment. There are no pre-cut grooves or screws to ensure a perfect fit, so the assembly of the frame is a particularly critical step, requiring extra care and attention.
I have some errands to run tomorrow, so my work time will be limited, but I plan to continue making progress on this project.
