Design Explanations

I’ve tried to make it more complex than it should be right from the start, but figured out the simpler it was, the more efficient it would be (I’m putting my first model in it too just for fun, but it’s way too complex for what it’s meant to do). So I opted for the simpler model instead.

I’ve designed it with keeping in mind that layer adhesion could be an issue, so I’ve thought the shaft should be printed flat (obviously) BUT the fixation mechanics should be an external part if so, because having screw holes oriented in the layer interfaces directions could cause serious delayering issues.

There goes the bracket; by printing it flat as it is, it should be solid enough to fix the shaft and wouldn’t cause delayering issues.

Testing Explanations

Test has been made with Plain Yellow PLA on an Ender-3

Printing parameters :

-          0,28 mm layer height

-          200’C Nozzle

-          60’C Bed

-          30% Infill

-          2 Shells, 4 Bottoms and Tops

I’ve tried the Threaded Rod model WITHOUT any Rod in it, two screws on the bracket. It was screwed on a ¾’’ melamine sheet.

I’ve put a full ABS spool on it and it didn’t flex at all ; I’ve tried giving it some help and forced it downwards with an arm, and it really seems to hold pretty damn well. I am not equipped to make a force resistance test, so I couldn’t tell how much it can weild, but it definitely can hold a standard spool for a good time.

Having said that, I firmly believe that the threaded rod model is overkill and isn’t needed at all; BUT :

Nobody wants a full spool to fall on a printer…right?  I’d rather take that model if it’s to be printed with PLA or any soft material.