3D Printed Guitar Capo - Project Note

myminifactory

Brief History As a guitar player I know how it feels to be equiped and ready to go however the main component which always fail are my capos. Having purchased at least 6 within my 3 years of playing with each capo being made out of "metal", I'm sick and tired of these failing on me. Therefore I'm going to design a simple, functional and 3D printable cheap one. BRIEF To design a 3D enabling guitar capo which allows guitar players to use and to better understand 3D printing applications and design. Design Process The design process started off with drawing concepts and ideas which were developed from experience of using capos. The functional elements which were required were a flat face surface to connect onto the strings and a force to push them downwards onto them. Once I drew up a feasible concept from development of form and body, I started to make prototypes with use of polymorph and small modelling tools. I tested and developed each one for results of best fit, sound quality and overall ability to attach it onto the guitar. From development of 4 prototypes, a dimension and feasible form was used in creating the CAD model. The CAD model was slightly changed in form for visual appearance and build, this was then rendered and photoshoped. Design Requirements The flat surface of the capo which connects to the stings must be a flat and clean surface, otherwise it will be hard to get a smooth and clean tune. Depending on what material you use, the bottom surface of the capo must be clean and smooth otherwise you risk the chance of damaging the capo or strings. If you're concerned then use a 2mm thin rubber material to add extra protection if reqired. IMPORTANT The design requires a strong and small rubber band to attach the capo onto the guitar neck, as seen on my prototypes and graphics. I've personally used a thick industrial band as seen on my prototypes however a normal one from a stationary shop will do. Just make sure the capo pushes down onto the strings with use of a tight and strong rubber band.