Thumb Screw Adapter (M3 Socket/Allen Head Bolts)

thingiverse

The side panel of my Peopoly Moai requires M3-16 cap head screws which necessitates using an allen wrench each time I need to remove a panel. To eliminate this hassle, I created thumb screw adapters for the M3-20 socket/allen-head bolts and achieved a satisfying result: the exposed thread length remains about 16mm due to the base being approximately 4mm. I designed these adapters to be extremely snug, requiring the bolt to be threaded in until its head reaches the thumb screw body before getting pressed in. This ensures that the knurling on the bolts bites into the thumb screw body and resists unthreading during use. A photo of a folding table's underside showcases how I pressed in the bolt using a hole and allen wrench, applying a bit of pressure which was slightly uncomfortable for my palm. I produced these adapters using my Peopoly Moai with Siraya Tech 'FAST' grey resin, known for its pliability. I suspect brittle resins would shatter during pressing, but this wasn't an issue in my case. Next time around, I might add a bevel to the outward edge of the adapter for easier use; however, a file can always be used as a substitute.