Removeable Spool Holder Arm and Bracket for Lulzbot Mini

thingiverse

This is a significant alteration to the conventional spool arm on the Lulzbot Mini. It substitutes the hinge with a straightforward U Bracket, utilizing the same mounting holes on the frame. The benefits are two-fold. Initially, the hinged arm caused constant frustration when relocating the printer. It swings down at the worst possible moments, and while folded, it doesn't fit perfectly inside the profile of the case, making it easy to snag things. Most importantly, because the hinged mechanism crosses the plane of the case opening, it blocks us from easily adding an enclosure panel on that side. This modification removes the hinged section from the bottom of the arm and replaces the hinge on the frame with a U-bracket that securely holds the arm, allowing for easy removal during transport. The new profile on the right-hand side of the machine enables us to easily add an enclosure panel to the printer. If you're interested in an entire add-on kit to enclose your Lulzbot Mini, I've put together a package that includes this component and laser-cut acrylic panels. Check it out at http://drazzticaction.com/products-page-2/3dprinters/, or go to http://www.ebay.com/itm/Add-on-Enclosure-for-Lulzbot-Mini-3D-Printer-/291446076488?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item43db8a3448. Instructions The OpenSCAD file for the arm simply trims the bottom of the existing Arm (spool_mount_v1.2_Mini.STL) and rounds off the end. This modification can also be done to the existing arm that comes with the machine, using a bandsaw and a file. Simply cut off the bottom inch of the arm and taper it smoothly to fit into the printed bracket. You'll also need four 30mm long M3 machine screws to attach this to the side of your printer. Use the existing mounting bracket that comes with the printer and reverse it so the hinge slots are towards the inside, as they won't be used. Slide the arm into the bracket and you've got a secure, low-profile, removable filament spool arm.