Model Boat Keel Clamp

prusaprinters

<p>I needed a keel clamp to start in the production of a model boat build and decided it would be cheaper to print one than buy one.<br>However search as I may I could not find one. So I ventured into making it. I wanted it to come apart for storage as I only have a very small hobby area.</p><p>I am extremely new to all this but used fusion 360 and several test prints before the eventual item pictured.<br>I did use <a href="https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1460590">https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1460590</a> to get things started but did resize bits, add a base and arm to the joints.<br>I also changed the bolts to M3's rather than PLA as I could not get on with them from the previous make.<br>I also added M3 bolts to the joints to add stability as there was some wobble. the holes are threaded.</p><p>I have fitted foam pads to the clamp jaws, This can be seen in the views looking down over the clamp, if you look closely you can see both the different versions. the jaw at the top is wider but does angle down</p><p>I found that once the socket bolts were tightened everything was firm and stable and can be angled into various positions.</p><p>UPDATE. I have printed version 2 in Green but decided to add a penny resin base. Happy with version one clamp to table, but decided I would like a weighted base for upcoming hull holder for fitting out. Also when putting version 2 together i found the screw holes for some reason were to small have have update file</p><p>Looking to add a hull holding system to in the future</p><p>MK2<br>TOP ARM, On completing I decided I preferred to bolt across the dove joint rather than with it</p><p>BASE, I changed the orientation so that the bolts in the socket base faced towards me rather than to the side.</p><p>TOP ARM CLAMP, On fitting the first I felt that the jaws were not closing evenly, (the problem with having a long Jaw) I angled the jaw to try and reduce this issue.</p><p>SOCKET, changed the screw hole to the side.</p><h3>Print instructions</h3><p>I used Prusament a roll my son gave me with this my first printer.</p><p>A few items did need support E.G. after several failed prints of the socket, and I then ended up leaving the support setting on for everything, even items where it was not needed.<br>I used 15mm quality setting as was unsure about thread detailing and again left that setting for everything. No doubt more experienced printers know better and I am happy to be educated on this in the comments. Plus a lower print quality would lead to faster print times.</p>