Printrbot Simple Metal Micro SD to standard SD mod

thingiverse

After creating a custom case and setting up a Reprapdiscount LCD Controller on my Printerbot Simple Metal (http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1788984), I wanted to test printing from an sd card without using a computer. The card slot on the Printrbot is hard to reach, making it like threading a needle when loading a micro sd card. I searched for a way to bypass the Printrbot SD slot and connect it directly to the card reader on the LCD controller, and found this adapter: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0143QFXYO/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1. I decided to put off experimenting with the reader on the LCD controller for now and created a housing for the adapter. This allows me to convert the Printrbot card reader into a full-size SD slot, making it easier to load cards. With my final build using metallic-look silver to match my printer scheme, I was able to print at .1984 layer height with great results. Everything turned out perfect, and I highly recommend printing at .2 or lower for best results. I had originally planned to seal this with epoxy but if there are requests, I will create versions for M2 or M3 short screws to securely assemble it without glue. After functionality tests, the connection has been very secure (no intermittent read issues). I have not yet tested ability to select from a list of multiple files but will test and report my results. This was designed with Designspark Mechanical. My approach was to lay out an area that matches the actual size of the main card dimensions. I used a caliper to measure the detail positions for the SD card slot: the micro-sd card edge extension, the mounting hole positions, and the thickness of the overall module/clearance needed for the cards reader. I placed an offset line for the housing wall and converted the sketch to a 3D test module. After a few test prints and finalizing card-edge, stand-off mounts, and card slot cutouts I made a basic cover. After putting the assembly together and plugging it in to the printer for a fit check, tolerance adjustments were made to the outer so both halves would fit together better. The original plan was to fasten this to the printer with 3M double-face tape, so a 1 mm gap was allowed on the printer-facing end of the housing. Photos will be posted of the actual build. This may be revised with a click-in-place option so tape will not be needed to fasten it to the printer. Suggestions and constructive criticism are welcome! Additional Notes: After using this item for a while, I'm adding this update. I've had very good success with this and have used some epoxy to permanently fasten the case together. The unit has been fastened to the printer using 3M double-face tape (automotive type) for greater stability. Combined with my LCD controller (http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1788984), I've been able to keep my favorite items handy on a sd card or Micro SD card with adapter. The controller also does support subfolders, which may be handy for organizing collections or managing collections for different quality or material settings. I have not confirmed this, but I thought I saw some info on a forum that indicated the maximum supported capacity is 8 gb for this port. I will research this and post my findings.