Modular Ball Joint Base

prusaprinters

What started out as a way to test 3d printed threads ended up spiraling into a modular, adjustable base system. Designing this, i went for a few things; a minimum of easily printed parts, a maximum of freedom of adjustment, and an easy way to attach other random bits to it. The first i feel was pretty well accomplished. The simple versions of this joint require just 3 easily printed parts, the more complex version still only needs 4. Range of movement is good as well, the simpler joints can go from straight to a roughly 50 degree bend, and the more complex panavise style base can go all the way to 90 degrees, with both styles being able to orbit freely. A simple twist of the nut on any of the bases securely locks the joint in place. Attaching other bits and pieces is done with the threaded studs attached to the balls. The studs and the threaded version of the ball are modeled with a 1/2" ACME thread, meaning that anything with that thread can theoretically be attached to the base. Light stands, phone mounts, positionable 3rd hand system, skys the limit so long as you can thread it into the base somehow. Parts for the simple joints are interchangable, i.e the same nut works on both bases. The same sized ball is used for all 3 bases as well. To make a simple base youll need to print the simple ball joint base and simple ball joint base nut files, and either the ball threaded stud file and the ball joint threaded ball files, OR the ball joint one-piece ball. Either will work, the threaded ball combo will just give you a 2 piece assembly. For the panavise-style base, youll need to print the panavise base, panavise base nut, panavise base captive lock, and one of the 2 ball files. More to come to play with these bases. In the works are a clamp to hold a flashlight that threads into the stud on the ball, as well as a coupling to add a threaded end to a wooden dowel to make longer arms without the long print time. Possibly a phone mount. Stay tuned! Print Settings Printer Brand: Monoprice Printer: Select Mini Notes: All parts are able to be printed without supports, just orient everything facing up on the build plate and youre golden. Ive found that the ACME profile threads print just fine oriented vertically, with more than enough strength to work as intended. Ive also found that the design can be scaled down to 50% without issue, possibly smaller. Larger should be possible as well, but you may need to add supports. Post-Printing The threads for the locking nuts will be rather stiff the first time theyre screwed together, but they will loosen up after the first few assemblies. Category: Tools