Springy OpenLOCK Clip

thingiverse

A Springy OpenLOCK Clip That Offers a More Pleasant Snap Action and Increased Durability for OpenLOCK Tiles, Especially Triplex Versions. # Instructions Because different filaments have varying stiffness levels, I've uploaded three versions to try out: * Springy * Medium-Springy (My Favorite) * Firm To test these clips, print a few medium-springy ones. If you prefer stiffer clips, switch to firm; if they're too stiff, try the springy/loose version. After printing the clips, insert two in a 2x2 tile and clip together with another tile to assess the snap action. # Why a Springy OpenLOCK Clip? While magnetic clips are gaining popularity, I'd like to give non-magnetic clips another chance. I'm a fan of the OpenLOCK system by printablescenery.com. It reminds me of LEGO bricks for tabletop games. The feeling of pressing two bricks together was a significant part of the fun. However, after printing several dozen OpenLOCK clips and testing them on printed tiles, I found the action of inserting, removing, and clipping tiles to be too stiff. Additionally, I noticed fast deterioration of the middle support columns in triplex connections due to their small surface area and stiff stock clip action. Springy OpenLOCK clips are precision-engineered to address both issues. The springy nature provides a pleasant snap action when clipping tiles together, requiring no excessive force to separate them. Clips can even be removed with minimal force by rolling them to the side. While a single springy clip yields less holding power than a stock clip, using two or more in a line offers sufficient holding power for larger structures. Please note that "in a line" doesn't necessarily mean you need more than one per tile in any direction. If needed, add an extra clip for increased holding power. # A Note on the License OpenLOCK is dual-licensed. The default license for anyone is CC-BY-NC, which I've listed for this item. Additionally, I grant permission to apply whichever additional (commercial or libre) license you may have obtained from a deal with Matt/printablescenery.com directly, to these files as well (So long as you don't contact me if issues arise).