Powder based 3D printing, such as SLS, has the amazing ability to build parts with hinges in one go with no assembly required.

At my current job a few customers use this ability to reduce complexity in their production line. 

I wanted to explore this principle and specifically experiment with the clearance required to make a design sucessful.  To do this I designed a vice as I knew it would be useful in my own projects.

The model above was built in just 3 'Parts' despite having 8 separate independent bodies.

For example the orange section on the right two images is effectivly 'floating' inside the outer part of the model.

Getting the correct clearance is absolutely essential to the success of a design like this.  There are no easy 'rule' as it is dependent on the exact geometry of the hinge.

To increase the success of my design powder escape holes were added to the pin holes.

I added a rail system with another clamp to hold it to the work surface.

The vices have been very useful for low force jobs such as soldering.