Helping Hands

thingiverse

I encountered a lack of helping hands designs featuring StefanHH's ball and socket (5578) on Thingiverse, so I decided to create my own. To construct the base, I used a 3-inch x 3/8-inch iron pipe and a matching floor flange in the USA; however, other countries may require different materials with similar characteristics. If your mount dimensions differ from mine, don't worry, as I've included OpenSCAD files to assist you. I designed the pipemount and base_flange in Alibre and provided the source files. Additionally, I created an OpenSCAD file that imports STL files, allowing users to create custom sizes for essential holes. To assemble, use preferred alligator clips from previous projects, which fit a 4.8mm OD tube into the 5578 center hole. Secure the base_flange to the pipe mount using 4-20x3/4 plastite self-tapping screws. You can adjust the screw sizes in the OpenSCAD files for customization. Print 12 of thing 5578, two base_flanges, and one pipemount. Glue the pipemount to the pipe. Attach 10 of the 5578, five on each side, and string a 1.75mm filament (3mm likely fits) end-to-end through all 10 pieces and the mount for tension. Secure the ends with epoxy but avoid getting glue in the sockets. This filament helps maintain the assembly's stability. Attach alligator clips to the remaining two 5578s, allowing you to design alternative holders by replacing the clips as needed.