Helping Hands Magnetic Base With Wiring Option

thingiverse

I wanted a custom base for my helping hands setup but none of the existing designs had all the features I needed:\r\n1) Some trays to hold loose items, like this one https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2576668\r\n2) A magnetic base to enhance stability and weight, inspired by https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:644998\r\n3) Integrated wiring for all pipes to support LED lit magnifying glass, exhaust fan, probes or other accessories.\r\n4) A solid faux cast iron look that matches my other soldering equipment (appearance is crucial).\r\nHere it is.\r\n……………………\r\nThis base requires 1/4-20 threaded cooling pipes, similar to these https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008O14864 \r\nIf you want to use different cooling pipes, simply regenerate STL files with the desired thread.\r\nI added alligator clips https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B072FJQ7BG to complete my "hands".\r\nThe bottom is weighted by this locally sourced magnet https://www.homedepot.com/p/MASTER-MAGNETICS-25-lb-Round-Base-Pull-Magnets-96324/203613132\r\nI recommend using short #6 Plastite screw to hold the magnet, but any short self-tapping screw will do. Just ensure it's short enough not to go through the top!\r\nI finished my base with some self-sticking felt pads so it lowers the magnetic force slightly and reduces noise.\r\n……………………\r\nWiring for this base is an optional feature. If you don't need it, there is a model without wire management. The base with wire management has two auxiliary compartments for additional electronics if required. I plan to use it with Arduino Pro Mini to drive my NeoPixel lit magnifying glass (see soon as my other project).\r\n……………………\r\nThis base was designed in OpenSCAD for an extrusion width of 0.5 mm and layer height of 0.2 mm. 5 top and bottom layers, 4 perimeters and 20% infill ensure a very sturdy base; supports are recommended for the magnet cavity. Print with PETG if you want to use it for soldering so the base doesn't melt easily.\r\n……………………\r\nThe source file is included. If you remix, please also share your source file.\r\n……………………\r\nNote: And again, OpenSCAD preview pictures are subpar! The model works fine in OpenSCAD. Sorry about that.