b4l-project-template/mechanical/stl

/mechanical/stl

3D printable files for all mechanical components and sub-assemblies.

Purpose

This directory contains STL files ready for 3D printing, organized by functional categories. These files support prototyping, custom tooling, replacement parts, and production components.

Organization by Function

Organize STL files by their intended use and sub-assembly:

stl/
├── enclosure-parts/            # 3D printable enclosure components
│   ├── housing-prototypes/
│   ├── custom-panels/
│   ├── mounting-brackets/
│   └── access-covers/
├── mounting-hardware/          # Custom brackets and mounting solutions
│   ├── pcb-mounts/
│   ├── sensor-brackets/
│   ├── cable-management/
│   └── standoffs-spacers/
├── prototyping/                # Prototype and development parts
│   ├── concept-models/
│   ├── fit-test-parts/
│   ├── functional-prototypes/
│   └── design-iterations/
├── tooling/                    # Assembly and manufacturing aids
│   ├── assembly-jigs/
│   ├── test-fixtures/
│   ├── alignment-tools/
│   └── handling-fixtures/
├── replacement-parts/          # Service and maintenance components
│   ├── wear-parts/
│   ├── consumables/
│   └── field-replaceable/
└── custom-components/          # Project-specific mechanical parts
    ├── actuator-parts/
    ├── interface-components/
    ├── structural-elements/
    └── specialty-hardware/

File Naming Convention

Following FILE-NAMING-AND-VERSIONING.md standards:

• project-name_pcb-mount-bracket_v2.1.0_petg.stl
• project-name_sensor-housing-top_v1.0.0_abs.stl
• project-name_cable-gland_v1.2.0_tpu.stl
• project-name_assembly-jig_v1.0.0_pla.stl

Naming Structure

[project-name]_[component-description]_[version]_[material].stl

Material Suffixes

• _pla - PLA filament
• _petg - PETG filament
• _abs - ABS filament
• _tpu - TPU flexible filament
• _asa - ASA filament
• _pc - Polycarbonate filament

Versioning Strategy

• MAJOR: Dimensional changes affecting fit/function
• MINOR: Feature additions, improvements
• PATCH: Print setting optimizations, minor corrections

Print Settings Documentation

Include recommended print settings for each component:

Material Recommendations

• PLA: Prototyping, non-critical parts, tooling
• PETG: Mechanical parts, chemical resistance
• ABS: Structural components, higher temperature resistance
• TPU: Flexible parts, gaskets, vibration dampening
• ASA: Outdoor use, UV resistance
• PC: High strength, high temperature applications

Print Quality Settings

Document recommended settings for each part:

• Layer Height: 0.1mm (fine), 0.2mm (standard), 0.3mm (draft)
• Infill: 10-20% (light), 40-60% (standard), 80-100% (structural)
• Support: Required/not required, support type
• Orientation: Optimal print orientation for strength/finish
• Post-Processing: Required finishing operations

Quality Control

Print Validation

• Dimensional Accuracy: Critical dimensions and tolerances
• Surface Finish: Required surface quality
• Mechanical Properties: Strength and durability requirements
• Fit and Function: Assembly and mating requirements

Testing Procedures

• Fit Testing: Verify assembly with mating parts
• Functional Testing: Confirm operational requirements
• Durability Testing: Lifecycle and wear testing
• Environmental Testing: Temperature and chemical resistance

Manufacturing Notes

Production Considerations

• Print Time: Estimated printing duration
• Material Usage: Filament consumption estimates
• Batch Production: Multiple part printing strategies
• Quality Assurance: Inspection and acceptance criteria

Alternative Manufacturing

Document when injection molding or machining might be preferred:

• Volume Thresholds: When to consider other processes
• Material Limitations: Properties not achievable with 3D printing
• Tolerance Requirements: Precision beyond 3D printing capabilities
• Surface Finish: Requirements for smooth or textured surfaces

File Management

Version Control

• Include version numbers in filenames
• Document changes in commit messages
• Tag releases for production parts
• Maintain design history and rationale

Source File References

• Link STL files to source CAD files
• Document any modifications made for 3D printing
• Include original design intent and specifications
• Reference assembly drawings and instructions

Print Instructions

Setup Requirements

• Printer Specifications: Minimum build volume and capabilities
• Material Preparation: Drying and storage requirements
• Bed Preparation: Adhesion and leveling requirements
• Environmental Conditions: Temperature and humidity control

Post-Processing

• Support Removal: Techniques and tools required
• Surface Finishing: Sanding, smoothing, or coating
• Assembly Preparation: Drilling, tapping, or fitting operations
• Quality Inspection: Dimensional and visual checks