Loose Filament Spool Enhancement (based on the Spool Wall Mount)

thingiverse

Update: A brand new version of the upgrade plate hits the scene - the "New" name says it all! This plate features grooves to keep the rubber band securely in place, although printing it may be a bit tougher due to the necessary bridging required. The good news is that both upgrade plates are interchangeable and will fit perfectly with the cones of my spool wall mount, providing an even better click-fix system and easier removal. Want an even tighter grip? Just twist it like a bayonet catch! A new spacer part has been added to ensure the perfect distance between the cones. This upgrade plate is an improvement on my Spool Wall Mount (http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1051124), designed to handle loose filament with ease. Simply snap it onto one of the cones, and you can forget about removing it for regular spools. The design inspiration came from this clever thing: http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:13395 - thank you, murat! To assemble this awesome system, you'll need to print the Upgrade Plate and three forks. I've made it easy by providing a single fork piece and grouping them into two or three units, depending on your build space. Don't forget to grab three M4x16 countersunk screws (5/32" or US No.8, 5/8" length) and a rubber band! Be cautious when pressing the upgrade plate onto an existing cone - just follow the instructions! For visual assistance, check out the handling in the pictures. Remember to add something between the cones for adequate horizontal space; the spacer part attached to this thing or an empty toilet paper roll will do the trick. Once you've got your loose filament in place, pivot those forks 90 degrees to secure it. With these simple steps, you'll be enjoying your upgraded spool wall mount in no time! Print Settings: Rafts: No worries here! Supports: No need for any supports Resolution: Get down to business with a resolution of 0.25mm Infill: A solid 75% will do the trick Notes: Don't forget that ABS is your best bet (PLA would work too!) Post-Printing: Instructions: Give those parts a good cleaning and smooth out the snap-on-pins for an easier experience. Carefully press one existing cone onto the snap-on-pins of the upgrade plate. Do NOT cant the pieces! Use a vise if possible, and something like this (http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1023770) to get it done smoothly. No need to remove the upgrade plate for regular rolls with an inner diameter of 54mm (see picture). If you do need to remove it, carefully lever it parallel in small steps using a screwdriver to avoid canting! Mount those enhancement forks onto the cones using M4x16 countersunk screws. And don't forget that rubber band!