SideSpooler - Spool mount for Wanhao i3
Description
Update: PTFE tube retention is nonexistent and hopeless. Overall, I moved away from this project while building another spool holder. Update: New version for PTFE tube uploaded. Let me know if the tube has problems fitting. I also added slightly more material behind the back screw on the guide piece. Simple spool holder for original Wanhao i3+. Unsure of compatibility with other versions of the i3/i3+. Requirements: - (4) M3x12mm screws (give or take - bare minimum around 8mm or 10mm) - (4) M3 nuts - 3" of PVC 1" Sch 30 - IMPORTANT: One side of the Wanhao frame MUST have UNUSED M3 slots for mounting a Z-switch! Otherwise you may need to drill holes in the frame. If so, you may also edit the design to use fewer screws instead of the 4x M3 screws. Installation: - Get hotend ribbon cable out of the way. (i3+ models only.) - Locate the M3 slots typically used for mounting the Z endstop switch, or drill holes in the frame as needed, ensuring sufficient clearance for the spool. - Place the 4 M3 screws into the base part. Place onto mounting holes and place the M3 nuts on the other end. - Hand tighten M3 nuts, then use allen wrench to assist. - Friction fit the PVC onto the base piece. If a more secure fit is needed, use hot glue or edit the design to add a screw (while drilling a hole in the PVC to fit). Avoid something permanent such as superglue, unless you have lengthy allen wrenches that can access the screw(s) through the tube. - Friction fit the end piece onto the PVC tube. Line up the tab so it points upwards. Again, avoid making this permanent unless you have tools that can reach the screws. - Mount the guide piece. Remove the stock spool holder and use the same screws to secure it in place. Feel free to edit/redesign particularly if you don't have PVC laying around, and/or need to accommodate other requirements. Disclaimer: Photograph does not show final spool endstop piece uploaded here. Instead, I fixed a botched prototype print to use it. If there are problems, let me know! Update: Adding PTFE tubing to the design may be a good idea. This is by no means a final design. Update: I did manage to get the better portion of an ABS spool through this. The filament surface is smoother, so that may be why it's working better. That said, I still might modify this to use a PTFE tube whenever I get the time to do so. (I designed this so my enclosure would fit over the printer.)
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