[A03]Box_Organizer

1. Summary

This is a proof of concept of stackable box with not moving parts where the lid is locked in place by friction between parts. Bolts can be insert using thread or non-threaded holes. Also, these bolts will act as shank rod, making the box stackable. The bolts will be inserted in crossed position between layers, so in each layer one diagonal is use (see figure in assembly section).

The M3 bolts can be threaded into the hole, due to it has the right dimension for it. Though, if you like it extra strong, you can insert a M3 nut, which will be locked in place due to the conical shape of the hexagonal hole. Lid is locked into the box by the friction between the four faces. The lid is actually a bit bigger than the box, so it is a strong locking lid. (See previous right figure).

Careful consideration has been put during the design of this box. Through testing, I found the best compromise between easy insertion and good locking pressure, guarantee usability of this box. It is, however, still a 3d printed plastic box, so don't get too crazy with it! See my process for designing this here.

Files description:

[StackableBox_Box.stl] is the main body of the box. See next paragraph for more details on printing settings.
[StackableBox_Lid.stl] – This file contains the lid for the box.

2. How I design it?

Setting off from the idea of non-moving part design, I started to design different version of this design. It took me a few iterations to get the perfect lid. Using the software Autodesk Fusion 360 I modelled all the 3D and 2D design for this project. I used Cura 5.0 with some extensions to slice the 3D model and loaded into my 3D printer.

3. Print Settings:

Every part has been printed with brim adhesion, in PLA. Using an extension for Cura 5.0 slicer, it is possible to orientate the parts for optimal printing. This will be helping to reduce postprocessing and avoid the use of supports.

Having a 0.2mm layer thickness will created a rougher surface in the inner face (outer for lid), which will improve the locking grip between lid and box.

test

Anet A8 (Heavily Modified)

Adhesion: Brim (5m width)
Supports: Doesn't Matter
Resolution: _0.2mm _
Infill: 20%
Notes:

4. Postprocessing

If you want a great finish in the hexagon slot base (for nuts), you will need supports. I haven’t tested this because it is not required a perfect finish in this hexagon inner faces.

If warping is a problem for you, it is advisable to use mouse ears on the corners of the box and lid.

After printing

Clean and lime down the edges in contact with the brim adhesion. It can be a bit sharp, and this item will be in contact with hand very often so you should smooth edges.

Whether you have used mouse ears or support remove them and clean them without changing the dimensions of the components.

For stacking boxes, it is possible to use M3 nuts, but it is also possible to thread in the printed part because the holes have been designed for that.

5. Bill of materials (BOM)

Printed:

1x: Box
1x: Lid

Non-Printed Parts:

2x: M3x50mm Flat Head Screws (per layer of box)

Optional:

2x: M3 Nut The flat head hardware is easily available at most stores, and the nuts are as well.

6. Assembly instructions

For stacking boxes use screws M3 bots in crossed position between layers. For instance, if in one layer you use one diagonal, on the next layer use the opposite diagonal. On this way, will be always two screws locking everything in place. It is possible to use M3 nuts, but it is also possible to thread in the printed part because the holes have been designed for that.

7. Relevant links:

Assembly video: https://youtu.be/b__V-v1wSoc

8. Donate

Thank you for every tip or donation, it means great recognition for me and helps a lot to keep going!

Or support my work passively given me a like, posting a making, following me and/or leaving a comment saying thank you.

9. Some of my work

3D Printer • Accessories

10. F.A.Q

You can sell your prints on Etsy, etc. Don't ask me for a permission, instead read the License associated to it (it's CC - Attribution SA)
If you like a model or making a profit out of it - donate me a small amount.
License is for a 3D/STL file and NOT for a PHOTO / other content (you can't sell your prints using my photo).

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