Borg Ship Assembly Brackets and Stand

thingiverse

This is an assembly bracket and display stand for the original Borg Cube design, tailored to my own printer's capabilities. After finding the ship parts challenging to assemble, I designed and printed these brackets to simplify the process. Printing two of them for one cube will ensure a solid foundation. Additionally, this design includes a display stand to showcase your finished project. To accommodate the original size constraints of my printer, I reduced the design by 50%, making it compatible with smaller print sizes. If you prefer to print the cube at its original size, scale these brackets and the stand to 200% for optimal fit. Alternatively, adjust the scale as needed to achieve your desired size. The original design includes numbered parts, which can be matched up using the included files and master file layout. I found it helpful to use tape and arrows to keep track of each part's orientation during assembly, even resorting to grinding off excess material for a smoother build process. To assemble the cube, start by attaching the side pieces to one bracket using hot glue. Work quickly to minimize gaps, ensuring a tight fit by applying pressure as soon as the glue is laid down. Hold the sides in place until the glue cools before repeating the process with the remaining sides and bottom piece. For added stability, use clamps while the 2-part epoxy cures. Finally, install the top piece using the same method. Next, apply a coat of high-build auto primer to reveal any gaps or filament hairs that need attention. This will make it easier to identify areas requiring additional touch-ups. After priming, inspect the cube for any remaining gaps. Fill these spaces with white glue or wood glue using a syringe, allowing it to set before "tamping" it down with a disposable brush. Repeat this process until you're satisfied that all seams are filled and the cube appears solid. To further enhance the appearance, use a Dremel with a soft-bristle brush tool to buff away excess glue and filament hairs. If necessary, smooth out exterior surfaces using 220-grit paper. Finally, mix grey and black paint in your airbrush to achieve a flat gunmetal color, resulting in a finished product that looks great. Print the stand, and you'll be done. I'm thrilled with the results, and I hope this guide helps you assemble this model successfully.