Small processing
Today is a national holiday in Japan called "Shunbun no Hi" (Vernal Equinox Day). So, my workshop had a later start than usual. But it's not a day off for me😅
First, I attached the other Kannuki (slide keys)panel of the 6-sun 27-steps puzzle box, which I started gluing yesterday. At this stage, there is a very important task besides just attaching this panel.
This process involves adjusting the movement of the Aruki (moving panels) on the back panel (which will become the bottom of the box). Once Kannuki panel is attached, the back panel can no longer be removed. Therefore, I need to adjust its tightness at this stage. Of course, I already adjust the tightness when assembling the box, but once the side panels are attached, they often press in from both sides, making the movement stiffer. So, at this point, I carefully fine-tune it to ensure a perfect balance. In most cases, the back panel is slid by pressing on its surface, so it is better to make it slightly loose. Compared to the top panel, it tends to be a bit harder to move.
In addition to this, I did some fine processing for the "knock box". In a way, this step is the most important part of the box. First, I drilled holes and made recesses at the spots where the magnets will be placed. The size must be just right so that the magnets fit perfectly. The positioning is very important—I carefully find the best spot where the magnetic force works effectively to ensure the mechanism fits precisely. Next, I determine where to place the screws that will be attracted to the magnets. Their position must also be carefully adjusted to align with the magnets. The strength of the magnetic force is crucial—if it is too weak, the mechanism will come apart too easily, but if it is too strong, solving the mechanism will be too difficult. So, I need to adjust it to just the right strength. I haven’t done this part yet, but I will later attach the magnets and metal screws to the processed areas. Since simply fitting them in wouldn’t be secure enough, I will fix them in place with adhesive.
Today, the weather was nice, but it was a cold day. The stove is still in use at my workshop. In Japan, this time of year is a seasonal transition, and many people experience health issues. It's also a difficult time for those suffering from hay fever, as pollen levels are very high. Amidst all this, it seems that many schools held their graduation ceremonies this week. In Japan, the fiscal year ends at the end of March, and a new year begins in April. Both schools and workplaces start fresh in April.
I will continue these tasks tomorrow as well.
First, I attached the other Kannuki (slide keys)panel of the 6-sun 27-steps puzzle box, which I started gluing yesterday. At this stage, there is a very important task besides just attaching this panel.
This process involves adjusting the movement of the Aruki (moving panels) on the back panel (which will become the bottom of the box). Once Kannuki panel is attached, the back panel can no longer be removed. Therefore, I need to adjust its tightness at this stage. Of course, I already adjust the tightness when assembling the box, but once the side panels are attached, they often press in from both sides, making the movement stiffer. So, at this point, I carefully fine-tune it to ensure a perfect balance. In most cases, the back panel is slid by pressing on its surface, so it is better to make it slightly loose. Compared to the top panel, it tends to be a bit harder to move.
In addition to this, I did some fine processing for the "knock box". In a way, this step is the most important part of the box. First, I drilled holes and made recesses at the spots where the magnets will be placed. The size must be just right so that the magnets fit perfectly. The positioning is very important—I carefully find the best spot where the magnetic force works effectively to ensure the mechanism fits precisely. Next, I determine where to place the screws that will be attracted to the magnets. Their position must also be carefully adjusted to align with the magnets. The strength of the magnetic force is crucial—if it is too weak, the mechanism will come apart too easily, but if it is too strong, solving the mechanism will be too difficult. So, I need to adjust it to just the right strength. I haven’t done this part yet, but I will later attach the magnets and metal screws to the processed areas. Since simply fitting them in wouldn’t be secure enough, I will fix them in place with adhesive.
Today, the weather was nice, but it was a cold day. The stove is still in use at my workshop. In Japan, this time of year is a seasonal transition, and many people experience health issues. It's also a difficult time for those suffering from hay fever, as pollen levels are very high. Amidst all this, it seems that many schools held their graduation ceremonies this week. In Japan, the fiscal year ends at the end of March, and a new year begins in April. Both schools and workplaces start fresh in April.
I will continue these tasks tomorrow as well.
