Cable Dangler - suspension for cables in motion

thingiverse

This device is perfect for those who hate cable clutter. When cable chains are removed from a large x-y type printer, managing cables can become a challenge. They may drag onto the print surface, get caught by printer parts or tangle with other cables, filaments or bowden tubes. These "Cable Danglers" mount on a horizontal 2020 extruded bar and offer flexible configuration options for hanging cables towards their destination areas. The suspension system is designed to be adjustable using "music wire," also known as "piano wire." A thicker steel guitar string can work just as well. The loop that holds the cable in place allows for some movement around the wire axis and forward and back over the bed, but it cannot twist or cause cables to tangle during printer head movements. Music wire is easily available online or at local hardware stores. Choose a suitable gauge based on your desired level of flexibility. A more flexible mount can help mitigate sharp bends in cables over time, while a stiffer option provides better definition. I used 0.047" (1.2mm) diameter music wire for my setup, which works well for suspending cables at around 10". The placement is determined by the angle of suspension, length of the wire and mounting position on the printer frame. The ideal wire length should be slightly less than half of the carriage's travel span. To cut the music wire, use a pair of gas pliers to shear it at your desired position. The "rotary clamp" features a ring with openings that fit over small posts on the 2020 mount, allowing for adjustment of the music wire's angle for optimal placement. The M3 screw that holds the two plastic pieces in place also clamps the music wire firmly. This system works best with cables wrapped in 8mm "spiral wrap." I've included two alternate versions of the 2020 Mount part, which are easier to print and require less plastic. They feature a mounting screw on the same side as the 2020 extrusion and come in right and left configurations to prevent sticking above the printer frame. I've also added a smaller version of the hanger for minimal visibility when adding an enclosure or keeping everything small. The first main photo showcases this setup with the smaller hangers and alternate 2020 Mount parts, which look sleeker. To further secure cable ends and minimize sharp bending, check out the Cable Strain Reliefs designed to work with this system – they're available on Thingiverse. This device has made printing much simpler on my FT-5 printer, and I hope it helps you too!