Spool of Thrones Holder

thingiverse

Many schools purchase filament in bulk, but this can pose a problem when trying to fit large spools into standard factory holders. To address this issue, students can create a custom spool holder using 1/2 PVC pipe or a dowel, which will allow them to utilize the vertical space above their printers. The design is specifically tailored for the large 2.2 kg (5 lb) spools from ColorFabb, providing sufficient clearance for any commercially available spools. This holder can be used as a standalone unit or integrated into the Lulzbot Taz 5/Taz 6 extruded aluminum frame. Using this spool holder allows students to explore geometry and architecture in their design process, while also having the option to expand it to hold multiple spools of filament. The addition of tool slots in the "SPOOL OF THRONES" version provides a convenient storage space for frequently used tools like wire cutters. Print settings: Printer brand: LulzBot Printer model: TAZ 5 Rafts: No Supports: Yes Resolution: .3 - .9 Infill: 10% Notes: Watch for warping, as this is a large piece. Break all sharp edges after printing and smooth out the inside and outside of the pipe using sandpaper. Post-printing: Finishing: This is a work piece that can be smoothed down with a soldering pen to remove any sharp edges. Sand the inside hole and pipe to create a snug, smooth fit. Design: This spool holder was designed in AutoCAD 2014 to fit within the channels of the Lulzbot's extruded aluminum frame. Its purpose is to accommodate large spools while maintaining sufficient vertical clearance on the Taz 5 printer model. The design can be used as a standalone unit or integrated into the printer. Objectives: * Provide service to the school by maintaining 3D printing equipment. * Explore arches and triangles in architecture through geometric shapes. * Understand stress, distributed load, tension, and vibration through hands-on experience. Audiences: This project is suitable for high school, Vo Tech, and college-level students. Students can explore the properties of these files using professional CAD programs like SolidWorks. Preparation: * Review basic geometry concepts. * Understand force, loading, and dynamic forces. * Familiarize yourself with how 3D printing works and troubleshoot common problems. Steps: a. Review geometric shapes. b. Review dynamic loading and static loading. c. Test loading by standing on the spool holders to compare forces with computer models. d. Use SolidWorks to predict and measure stress and loading on the design. e. Redesign the holder to use lighter materials or composite materials, or explore other desirable properties for 3D printing. f. Explore ways to commercially produce these holders or set up a printing farm to supply multiple schools. Results: * Demonstrate knowledge of 3D printing techniques. * Produce functioning spool holders for the school. * Understand dynamic and static loading through hands-on experience. * Modify the design to meet the engineering needs for their printers.