Cuboctahedron: The Intersection of Cube and Octahedron

The Cuboctahedron: The Intersection of Cube and Octahedron

Experience the perfect mathematical bridge with the 3D-printed Cuboctahedron. As the only quasi-regular polyhedron among the Archimedean solids, this shape is a stunning study in structural balance, representing the exact halfway point between a cube and an octahedron.

Design Highlights

• Quasiregular Symmetry: A harmonious arrangement of 14 faces—6 squares and 8 equilateral triangles—meeting at 12 identical vertices.

• Radiant Silk Finish: Printed in premium Silk Gold/Copper filament, the wireframe creates a metallic luster that highlights the "vector equilibrium" of its edges.

• Mesmerizing Shadow Play: The open-frame architecture projects a rhythmic pattern of squares and triangles, turning any direct light source into a geometric art installation.

• Consistent Series Scale: Precision-engineered to a 1.5 inch (39.6mm) edge length, ensuring it stands in perfect proportion with the rest of your Platonic and Archimedean collection.

Specifications

• Material: High-quality, eco-friendly Silk PLA.

• Construction: High-resolution 3D-printed wireframe, optimized for a high strength-to-weight ratio.

• Versatile Display: Includes a stable base for tabletop viewing and an integrated loop for use as a hanging kinetic mobile.

The Mathematical Story

The Cuboctahedron is a unique geometric "transformer." If you truncate a cube halfway to its edges, or an octahedron halfway to its edges, you arrive at this exact form. It is also famously known in synergetic geometry as the Vector Equilibrium, because the distance from its center to each vertex is exactly equal to its edge length—a state of perfect structural balance.