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grabowski a0c843204d Update mechanical folder structure for multiple sub-assemblies

- Refactor mechanical/ directory to support multiple sub-assemblies instead of just enclosures
- Update mechanical/README.md with comprehensive sub-assembly organization examples
- Enhance mechanical/cad/README.md with detailed sub-assembly structure (PCB mounts, sensor housing, connector panels, cooling, etc.)
- Expand mechanical/enclosure/README.md to cover main housing, sub-enclosures, and removable panels
- Improve mechanical/stl/README.md with broader 3D printing categories including tooling, prototyping, and custom components
- Update mechanical/drawings/README.md with comprehensive technical drawing organization for all mechanical components
- Add detailed manufacturing considerations, quality control procedures, and file management guidelines
- Support complex projects with multiple mechanical sub-systems and assemblies

2025-08-04 14:30:36 +07:00

4.6 KiB

Raw Blame History

/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

Use descriptive names that include key specifications:

PCB-Mount-Bracket_M3-Holes_v2.1.stl
Sensor-Housing-Top_IP65_ABS.stl
Cable-Gland_PG16_TPU-Flexible.stl
Assembly-Jig_Main-PCB_PLA.stl

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

4.6 KiB Raw Blame History