Compass Rose Map Stencil v1.1

thingiverse

Some maps simply do not include sufficient navigation tools, which can be a significant issue when trying to get back on track while navigating by map and compass. Fortunately, you can easily add as many compass roses as needed with this stencil and a fine-tip Sharpie pen. This is particularly crucial for anyone relying on landmarks or using maps to stay oriented. The idea behind this project came from observing an American evasion chart, which is a military map designed for downed airmen or stranded soldiers. These charts not only include multiple navigation methods but also provide essential survival information, first aid instructions, and even current sea drift rates. This level of detail is invaluable when trying to stay safe in the wilderness. This .scad file allows users to create a customizable compass rose stencil for use with 0.4-0.5mm tip pens. It includes options for extending cardinal lines and half protractors for use with parallel rules. The STL file output options have been included to speed up printing for those unfamiliar with OpenSCAD. Even novice users should be able to follow the comments in this code if they understand how to comment or uncomment lines of code. The size of the spokes can be adjusted, and the units can be switched from inches to mils as needed. This makes it easy to hack and customize the source code according to individual requirements. A 60mm circle rose with points that extend 32mm at 5-degree lines, 34mm at 10-degree lines, and optional 36mm or 64mmx64mm cardinal lines across the compass rose is included. This design aims to provide a flexible solution for adding compass roses to various types of maps, including National Geographic Adventure and Reise Know How polymer waterproof and tear-resistant maps. When applying the compass rose, it's essential to note the map grid and whether it points to true or magnetic north. A magnetic declination line should be added with a ruler, and the true north arrow marked with a five-point star. The stencil has been updated (v1.1) to include these marks. For now, printing in ABS is preferred, but the design can also be sent to a friend who prints both half and round stencils in clear polycarbonate. The thickness of the stencil has been reduced to 0.5mm (v1.1) to save plastic and make cleaning up easier. A laser cutter would be ideal for making these stencils, but it's not currently available. CAUTION: Proper alignment of this compass rose is crucial to avoid becoming lost or worse. Failure to do so could lead to serious consequences, even 50-100 years in the future. Take your time and verify the bearing between two landmarks on your map with a protractor online and on paper. Date the declination and note the angle off true as there is drift over the years, especially in areas most affected. v1.1 Added a Star stencil (thanks to Juan Gonzalez-Gomez (Obijuan) juan@iearobotics.com which is under the GPL) http://www.thingiverse.com/thing and an arrow stencil to mark true and magnetic north. Enlarged line size to 0.7mm as the first printing was too narrow. Made stencil thickness 0.5mm. Moved all lines to extend inwards at different lengths from a 68mm circle rather than radiate out from a 62mm circle with a cardinal cross inside. Now considering creating a set of north star finder/pointer stars stencils with Cassiopeia, Ursa Major and Minor, and possibly some finders from the imaginary 'south star' for southern celestial navigation. (update)Here is that Polaris finder diagram stencil http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1709126 On the other hand, learning about silk screening and laser printing might be a more efficient approach than using a 3D printer. However, this stencil remains a great option for those with access to a 3D printer and no silkscreening equipment. The stencil can live in a desk drawer for decades, ready for quick use with a pen or pencil.