- 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
122 lines
4.6 KiB
Markdown
122 lines
4.6 KiB
Markdown
# /mechanical/stl
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3D printable files for all mechanical components and sub-assemblies.
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## Purpose
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This directory contains STL files ready for 3D printing, organized by functional categories. These files support prototyping, custom tooling, replacement parts, and production components.
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## Organization by Function
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Organize STL files by their intended use and sub-assembly:
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```
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stl/
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├── enclosure-parts/ # 3D printable enclosure components
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│ ├── housing-prototypes/
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│ ├── custom-panels/
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│ ├── mounting-brackets/
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│ └── access-covers/
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├── mounting-hardware/ # Custom brackets and mounting solutions
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│ ├── pcb-mounts/
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│ ├── sensor-brackets/
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│ ├── cable-management/
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│ └── standoffs-spacers/
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├── prototyping/ # Prototype and development parts
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│ ├── concept-models/
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│ ├── fit-test-parts/
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│ ├── functional-prototypes/
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│ └── design-iterations/
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├── tooling/ # Assembly and manufacturing aids
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│ ├── assembly-jigs/
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│ ├── test-fixtures/
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│ ├── alignment-tools/
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│ └── handling-fixtures/
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├── replacement-parts/ # Service and maintenance components
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│ ├── wear-parts/
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│ ├── consumables/
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│ └── field-replaceable/
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└── custom-components/ # Project-specific mechanical parts
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├── actuator-parts/
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├── interface-components/
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├── structural-elements/
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└── specialty-hardware/
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```
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## File Naming Convention
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Use descriptive names that include key specifications:
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- `PCB-Mount-Bracket_M3-Holes_v2.1.stl`
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- `Sensor-Housing-Top_IP65_ABS.stl`
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- `Cable-Gland_PG16_TPU-Flexible.stl`
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- `Assembly-Jig_Main-PCB_PLA.stl`
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## Print Settings Documentation
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Include recommended print settings for each component:
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### Material Recommendations
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- **PLA**: Prototyping, non-critical parts, tooling
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- **PETG**: Mechanical parts, chemical resistance
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- **ABS**: Structural components, higher temperature resistance
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- **TPU**: Flexible parts, gaskets, vibration dampening
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- **ASA**: Outdoor use, UV resistance
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- **PC**: High strength, high temperature applications
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### Print Quality Settings
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Document recommended settings for each part:
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- **Layer Height**: 0.1mm (fine), 0.2mm (standard), 0.3mm (draft)
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- **Infill**: 10-20% (light), 40-60% (standard), 80-100% (structural)
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- **Support**: Required/not required, support type
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- **Orientation**: Optimal print orientation for strength/finish
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- **Post-Processing**: Required finishing operations
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## Quality Control
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### Print Validation
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- **Dimensional Accuracy**: Critical dimensions and tolerances
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- **Surface Finish**: Required surface quality
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- **Mechanical Properties**: Strength and durability requirements
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- **Fit and Function**: Assembly and mating requirements
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### Testing Procedures
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- **Fit Testing**: Verify assembly with mating parts
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- **Functional Testing**: Confirm operational requirements
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- **Durability Testing**: Lifecycle and wear testing
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- **Environmental Testing**: Temperature and chemical resistance
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## Manufacturing Notes
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### Production Considerations
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- **Print Time**: Estimated printing duration
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- **Material Usage**: Filament consumption estimates
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- **Batch Production**: Multiple part printing strategies
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- **Quality Assurance**: Inspection and acceptance criteria
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### Alternative Manufacturing
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Document when injection molding or machining might be preferred:
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- **Volume Thresholds**: When to consider other processes
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- **Material Limitations**: Properties not achievable with 3D printing
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- **Tolerance Requirements**: Precision beyond 3D printing capabilities
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- **Surface Finish**: Requirements for smooth or textured surfaces
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## File Management
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### Version Control
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- Include version numbers in filenames
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- Document changes in commit messages
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- Tag releases for production parts
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- Maintain design history and rationale
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### Source File References
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- Link STL files to source CAD files
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- Document any modifications made for 3D printing
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- Include original design intent and specifications
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- Reference assembly drawings and instructions
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## Print Instructions
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### Setup Requirements
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- **Printer Specifications**: Minimum build volume and capabilities
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- **Material Preparation**: Drying and storage requirements
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- **Bed Preparation**: Adhesion and leveling requirements
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- **Environmental Conditions**: Temperature and humidity control
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### Post-Processing
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- **Support Removal**: Techniques and tools required
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- **Surface Finishing**: Sanding, smoothing, or coating
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- **Assembly Preparation**: Drilling, tapping, or fitting operations
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- **Quality Inspection**: Dimensional and visual checks
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