Logical CardLock Case - The Programmable Gift Card Case with a Twist
Turn a simple gift into a clever surprise.
The Logical CardLock Case transforms an ordinary gift card into an interactive puzzle box with a programmable mechanical lock — printed almost entirely in one piece!
🔒 Key Features
- 100% 3D Printed – no screws, pins, or metal parts
- Print-in-Place Mechanism – works right off the print bed
- Programmable 3-Digit Lock – set your own combination
- Snap-Together Design – easy to assemble, no glue required
- Compliant Mechanisms – printed springs, flexible detents, and tumblers
- Multiple False Bottom Options –
- Simple flat insert
- Gift Card holder
- Gift Card + AirTag version
- AMS & Non-AMS Versions Included – choose between a clear-bottom or solid single-color case
- Super fun to print, assemble, and give!
⚙️ How It Works
The CardLock Case uses a unique compliant tumbler system:
- Three Dials control Gears, each with one missing tooth defining its unlock position.
- When the correct combination is set, notches align with the Tumblers, releasing the Latch Bar.
- The 3-point locking system disengages, allowing the case to open.
- To lock again, simply scramble the dials.
🧩 Assembly Highlights
- Snap each Gear into place (the large inner fillet faces up).
- Align gear notches with their matching tumblers.
- Insert and snap in the Dials, setting your preferred combination.
- Angle the Latch Bar into position until it clicks.
- Install your chosen False Bottom insert — flat, gift card, or gift card and AirTag style.
- Verify the lock slides freely when the correct code is entered.
No glue, no hardware — just geometry doing all the work.
✅ Prints fully functional off the bed — all compliant components and hinges are active immediately after printing.
🎁 Perfect For
- Gifting cards in a creative and interactive way
- Teaching compliant mechanism principles
- Showcasing multi-material AMS printing
- Makers who love functional prints and puzzles
🧠 Behind the Design
This design continues the LogicalPlanet tradition of functional, educational, and fun printable mechanisms.
It’s an evolution of my earlier puzzle-based projects — this time, combining mechanical logic, compliant geometry, and elegant form.
🧩 Maker Notes
- Use a clear AMS bottom to watch the gears move.
Each gear’s missing tooth defines its unlock position.
To change your lock code:
- Open the case and remove the False Bottom.
- Set the dials to the current open position.
- Lift each gear slightly and rotate it to a new position.
- Reinstall and verify that the latch bar slides freely.
Related Links
4-digit Logical CardLock Case - The Programmable Cash Case with a Twist
PuzzleLock Box — Lock and Puzzle in a Box
BinaryBin – 16-Digit Binary Coded Lockable Container
Programmable Combination Lock Gift Box
StashCan 2.1 - 3D Printed Secret Safe with Programmable Lock
Sequential Discovery Puzzle Gift Box #1 (GBS1)
Please join the LogicalPlanet Discord community via my linktree to discuss this and any other LogicalPlanet projects, upcoming projects, ideas and anything else related to LogicalPlanet.
https://www.logicalplanet.com/ email me at logicalplanet3d@gmail.com
Revisions and Updates I occasionally update and revise my designs. When I do, I’ll document the changes here. Check back periodically for the latest revision notes or if you’re experiencing any issues with a model.




































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that level of complexity is stunning - love your work! :)
PS: your discord invite link seems to be expired (I think that's the default setting, one can set it to unlimited)
Thank you. I have had some help getting the Discord server going and I think that meant new invite. Please try again using this one...
https://discord.gg/VV9fS8cM
That one also will expire in 7 days. If anyone is reading this later please use this one... https://discord.gg/sMTKFDGYDd
How do I get the clear bottom
Do you have an AMS? If you do, you set the bottom “clear” panel to a transparent material. If you do not have an AMS the use a transparent material for the entire print.