Filament filter with a reliable latch

prusaprinters

Introduction.The problem with most filament filters is that PLA tends to deform under the load over time and latches stop working properly. Notice how the halves no longer match up.So I was in a search for other ideas. Something that would be small and light, something that you can quickly replace without any additional tools, preferable with one hand.And then I came across an absolutely brilliant design by @zuberio. That latch is exactly what I was looking for. It solves all the problems I had with other filters.About the model.Actually, it's not exactly a remix, but more like an “inspired by” model. Yet I decided to label it a remix anyway, since it wouldn't have happened without the original design.This filter is designed to be printed with a 0.25 nozzle. Top and bottom of the filter are 0.6mm thick, and walls are 0.75mm thick (3 perimeters with a 0.25 nozzle). The hollow for the sponge is 20x14x5 mm, but I prefer to cut my sponges a bit thicker than 5mm to make it tighter. Clearances in the latch mechanism are 0.15mm. On my previous filters I had a hard time aligning the filament with the holes. So I made the holes a bit bigger. Also, compared to the original design by @zuberio I mirrored the latch mechanism. Having the latch on the left side feels wrong to me for some reason.Print and assembly notes.Hinges are designed around a 0.8mm diameter pin (paper clip). Unfold your paper clip. Don't worry too much about it not being perfectly straight. Insert it into the hinges, mark the locations where you will cut it. Remove the clip and slightly bend it in the middle between cut marks, now it should sit tighter in the hinges.When printing use brims and snug supports. Make sure there are no supports inside the latch.After printing you might want to clean the hinges a bit where the supports were. Fully assembled filter weights about 1.6g.