Combo 1" Lens Holder / Baffle

thingiverse

The Optics Bench System is a 1-1/2" outer diameter tube that allows for a 1" inner diameter passageway through its baffling system. The pipe threads enable attachment to other baffles, lens holder caps or plugs, and lens holders with adjustable pipe threads can be attached to baffles. Lens holders can mount filter/lenses using fine-threaded retainer rings, metal set-screws, or a simple press-fit method. Multiple assemblies are possible, allowing for the creation of light-tight tubes with integrated filters for precise optics in low-ambient-light conditions. Using OpenSCAD, all dimensions are fully scalable and customizable. Tubes can be labeled or embossed with text strings to distinguish between different versions. A logo can be engraved on the back of the tube. The OpenSCAD files are completely adjustable, allowing users to customize the mount type, lens diameter, tube length, and thread patterns. However, adjusting the threads required several iterations to achieve optimal results when printing with a Ultimaker2 using PLA plastic. Future plans include creating additional pipe-thread connectors, such as a 4-way cross, a lens-holder with pipe-threads on both sides, and mirror mounts with x/y fine adjustment capabilities. The ultimate goal is to create a comprehensive light-tight optics bench experiment. Print Settings: Printer Brand: Ultimaker Printer Model: Ultimaker 2 Rafts: No Supports: No Resolution: Default 0.4mm Infill Percentage: 20% Notes: The pipe threads are created using a fast but not very smooth OpenSCAD function, requiring extensive cleaning before joining. The lens-holder retaining ring is made with a higher-quality thread library, resulting in slower processing times and more facets. However, users have experienced issues with Cura thickening the top and bottom threads, causing them to jam. Chamfering may provide a solution to this problem. Design History: This project marks my first foray into OpenSCAD design. The accompanying .scad file is therefore quite messy. I began by adapting a lens holder from Customizable Lens Holder by jpearce (thingiverse.com/thing:62693) and learned the basics of OpenSCAD through his example.