Pantograph CFL desk lamp attachment

thingiverse

I had been using an actual metal G/C-clamp and a block of wood with a hole drilled in it to set up my CFL pantograph lamp missing its original base, but wanted it to have its own dedicated table attachment. Didn't like any of the ones I found on Thingiverse as well as wanted to try to make a remix, so here is what I got. For reference, the table lamp is a two segment dual beam pantograph compact fluorescent lamp using the PL-13 compact fluorescent bulb. The head unit contains just a small, lightweight reflector and the PL-13 bulb. Due to its ballast being at the base of the lamp just above the table clamp, it provides less stress on the clamp. Though I have to say there's still a lot to be desired I want to put my findings here for those who are thinking about making even more remixes - as well for those who wish to learn from problems encountered. This does work. I find the clamp to be a bit too small/weak for for the size and weight of the lamp, though it does hold it up. If I hold my hand on the clamp while adjusting the lamp position to reduce stress and prevent walking, it will work just fine. If the lamp head were a regular A19 bulb with an LED bulb with a magnifier lens, this would be insufficient to hold the additional weight. In any case I added a little bit of fillets to help distribute the weight, but here's a list of improvements: The receiver is about 20mm x 20mm wide cube with a half inch hole in it to match the original base design. However, the surface that touches the table really needs to be wider and go deeper into the desk and the circular weight distribution disc likewise needs to be further inwards. The weight and torque applied by the pantograph when fully extended will slightly bend the clamp though it will hold, but it won't be touching the whole surface down - perhaps just one edge of the clamp, and because of this it may walk off the end of the table if adjusted many times. I'd say another 10mm on three dimensions would be better. The original circular disc can stay the same diameter but should be moved inwards the table 5 to 10mm would be an improvement. The adjustment screw needs to have more and finer threads to attach to the table more firmly, but this would decrease printability. With more and finer threads there would be more torque to hold onto the lamp. The knurled bolt needs wings to provide even more torque when tightening. I was thinking about adding wings to the knurled handle but decided against it for now, maybe for revision 2 and may well remove the knurls to reduce print time. Have fun experimenting! --- January 8, 2021 update: After using this for a while, I don't think that being stingy on the infill is acceptable for this use. Over time the clamp at 20% infill is starting to bend - the long straight section of clamp is starting to bend slightly. The screw portion remains true, so coupled with the bent clamp, it is starting to point off center.