Patterns Universal Organizer Using Recycled 3D Printing Spools

I love 3D printing! It's so practical, it allows anyone to go from a simple idea to a prototype in just a few hours! I've been doing it for 6 years now, and I've already emptied a few spools... So I wondered if we couldn't do something with them... Searching on the Internet, I came across a number of design proposals that turned them into organizers. That's exactly what I wanted, because as well as 3D, I'm interested in electronics and programming, so I've got lots of little components to store. However, when I wanted to test these solutions, I ran into a problem: all the designs are for different coil sizes and it's not easy to find your way around, especially if, like me, you have coils of different sizes. So I created a document on the online CAD software: OnShape, a universal drawer model! By following this Instructables, you'll all be able to print your own organizer system for empty 3D filament spool, no matter what the dimensions of your spool. And you can even choose the number of drawers you want.

So it's on?

To make this organizer, you'll need :

1. one or more empty spools of 3D filament
2. a 3D printer and filament (ABS, PLA, etc.)
3. calipers or other measuring equipment
4. a computer and Internet connection
5. glue

First, you need to know the dimensions of one spool. Take your caliper and measure:

1. Inside diameter
2. Outside diameter
3. Inside height

Refer to the diagram.

Once you have this information, look closely at your spool. Does it have a pentagon shape like the one in the second image? And finally, how many drawers do you want? This information will come in handy in the next step.

You'll now configure your organizer with the information you've just retrieved. To do this, go to OnShape, an online CAD program. I've shared my file with you, so you can access and configure it directly, free of charge and without registration. Don't worry, I don't have access to the information you modify. Just click on this link.

You should normally have the same window on your screen as the first image in this step. At top left, in the orange square shown in the image, you can see that there are lines, with the various parameters. You can modify these parameters with your own values. If you don't have a small pentagon-shaped hole on your coil, don't forget to uncheck the box. You can choose the number of drawers, but only an even number.

If you wish, you can check that the changes have been made by manipulating the model.

In the bottom left-hand corner, you'll see a list of the different parts, on “Base 1” then on “Drawer 1”, right-click and export to STL. It's not necessary to export every part, as all drawers are patterns.

Use 3D slicing software to print your parts in 3D. You need 2 bases and the right number of drawers. Personally, I've chosen to print in PLA, but any hard filament will do. For the parameters, I trust you ;) However, if any of you are interested in mine, there's a preview in one of the images!

All that's left is to glue the bases to one side of the spool. Super Glue works perfectly, and I'd recommend using pliers to make sure everything sticks. Finally, to assemble the drawers, place them on top of their rails. Depending on the tolerances of your printer, you may need to lightly sand the back of the drawer rail.

I hope you've enjoyed this Instructable, that you've managed to finish your first recycled spool. Now it's up to you to repeat the pattern on other coils of various sizes, to store all sorts of little things, like electronic components. If you have any questions feel free to ask !