CanCage

myminifactory

I am submitting my entry for the "Fueling Innovation" 3D Design Competition. My design is called the Can Cage, and it's a game-changer. I created a can holder that transforms a standard stay-tab can into a resealable container that can be reused multiple times. The Can Cage is designed to be hooked onto a backpack, laptop bag, or any other item using a carabiner, making it incredibly convenient. I want to show the public the capabilities of 3D printing by partnering with the sponsor to display their printers in their petrol stations. To make this happen, I propose building a stunning display cabinet inspired by vintage gas pumps from the 1920s. The display cabinet will house a Kossel mini-style Deltaprinter, allowing everyone to see the printing process from all angles while keeping the printer safe and secure. The base of the cabinet will feature space for the power supply, spare filament rolls, and a scraper, making it a complete and self-contained unit. I designed every part to fit within a small build volume of 100 mm in diameter and 140 mm in height, ensuring that even micro delta printers like the RepRapPro Fisher 1 or RichRap's 3DR Delta can print the Can Cage with ease. The can holder itself is sealed using two O-rings: one with an inner diameter of 42x3 mm and another with a diameter of 32x3 mm. The larger O-ring seals the central part at the top of the can, while the smaller one secures the lid. Both threads are standard metric fine threads, measuring M60 x 1.5 mm and M30 x 1.5 mm respectively. The Esso logo on the carabiner serves as an end stop, preventing overbending and breakage. When pressed, the carabiner opens wide enough to accommodate the can holder's handle. To minimize cleaning time, I avoided using bridging, brim, or raft in my design. This means that the parts are clean and ready for use straight out of the printer. I chose the name "Can Cage" because it represents a practical solution that benefits many people, rather than an elaborate design for a select few. My goal is to create something that sparks excitement and desire in those who see it. The Can Cage showcases the potential of 3D printing by incorporating functional standard threads, separate parts, overhangs, logos, sealings, and more. This design is strong enough for daily use and not just limited to display purposes. I'm excited to share my creation with the Sponsor and the MyMiniFactory team, hoping to inspire them as much as I have been inspired during this competition. Thank you for the opportunity to participate; it's been a thrilling three weeks of tinkering, printing, and refining my design. Best regards, Bernd N. (Pantah)