Customized T-Loc Handles (3D Printed)

Ben:

I'm trying to decide what I could do to identify accessories (like abrasives?) versus the tool itself.

When you get a chance, I'd like to see a label that is GREEN on BLACK - opposite of the black on green you've already done - for use as a way to identify an accessory T-LOC systainer. For instance, how about making one that says '150mm' that would go on my abrasive/accessory systainer for my RO150 and ETS150/3?
 
So I did some tests today... with the results below. (sorry for the bad flash photos)

1. As you all suggested, I got rid of the bold text.

2. I tried enamel paint pens to get the contrasting color instead of pausing the print and swapping material. This makes the print process more reliable and I think it looks better, especially from angles. Examples of black/white on green and green on white. These give a permanent high gloss finish.

3. Changed the shape of the cleats and the latch. The latch is 1mm thinner and has a  smoother bevel. The cleats are now only angled on the side that grabs the systainer below. This improves print quality, as the printer was having trouble with the overhang.

4. Not visible, but did a bunch of strength tests on the cleats to find a strong infill / perimeter setting for the print. They are now 4 perimeters with 35% infill. I couldn't break it lifting my vacuum and two full systainers.

5. I'm going to set up an Etsy store as it seems the most user friendly for the buyer and seller. They take $0.20 to list + 3.5% fee + 3% credit card fee. Unfortunately, after adding these costs to the actual time/material costs I'm going to have to charge a bit more.

This is what I am thinking for pricing.
The faceplates will be $5 each.
The cleat set will be $15 as they take more material and over an hour to print the five pieces. I'll include a .pdf download to install them.

test pile
oct_12_1.jpg


enamel
oct_12_2.jpg


new cleat / latch design
oct_12_4.jpg


oct_12_5.jpg


oct_12_21.jpg


green on white
oct_12_22.jpg
 
Looks good Ben...

Might I suggest black plates with green letters. I think the green on black with green border will look slick. I also have some other suggestions which I will PM you about tomorrow or Tuesday.

Cheers. Bryan.
 
@mike_aa

I agree, the base clips would be useful too. I'll look into printing something similar.
 
Hi Ben ,

Brilliant idea , and it could be the start of a business for you.

Have you considered printing up something similar for the classic systainer , there must be hundred of thousands out there. Something on the lines of a rectangular plate that could be permanently fixed to the body of the systainer.  The old systainer does not even have provision for the labels  like on the Tloc and can be devils to identify in a van .

John
 
The Etsy store is up.

https://www.etsy.com/shop/123one

I'll try and make / ship orders as quickly as I can, and keep everyone up to date on their order status.

You can save a few dollars ordering in quantity, as I don't have to pay the listing fee per item that way.

Shipping will be USPS Priority Mail in the Flat Rate Boxes to keep it simple.

Thanks Everyone!

cleats_6.jpg
 
The store says "Up to 3 initials can be included" but I assume that you can actually do 'RO150' and the like?

Or am I wrong in assuming that?
 
wow said:
The store says "Up to 3 initials can be included" but I assume that you can actually do 'RO150' and the like?

Or am I wrong in assuming that?

Wayne,

There are options for initials, or for tools......  And various quantities.....
 
I wasn't sure of the best way to organize the listings, so I decided to separate the monogram from the model numbers. The text for the monogram is bigger than the text for the model numbers, so I limited it to 3 characters.

They are all the same price though, so for example if you want 8 model numbers and 2 monograms (or vice versa) it would be no problem to order "10x Custom Model No. Faceplates" and make a note during checkout.

Also, if you want something that is not listed, I can try to print it but if the text gets too small the infill on the lettering can get sloppy.
 
Very nice Ben!  [big grin]
Are you using a dual extruder or are you gluing the letters after printing?
 
Ben,

I'm interested in the latches and cleats.  But I'm curious...  What kind of 3D printer are you using?

Thanks,

Dan.

p.s.  For me the latches are a necessity.  I'm having difficulty finding the right systainer (the stacks on the floor are two deep).  :)  Here is a pic of my "Euro Shop":

DTC_2012_0326_10-XL.jpg
 
Have you tried "printing" dominoes?  I would think festool green dominoes in all the various sizes with a 5mm hole a few mm from each end would be wonderful dry assembly aids. The 5 mm holes would allow for inserting a tool to help removal in case things get tight and the smooth plastic should help prevent that problem anyway. No reason they couldn't be hollow if the printer will allow for that too. I've actually been thinking of taking that idea to a prototype plastic outfit down the road to try out, but you're more than welcome to the idea if it'll work with the printer.
Jim
 
I just ordered 21 custom T-Loc plates - and one set of the locking plates - will help me find stuff!

Thanks for setting this up!  BTW, agree on the domino idea!
 
Ben_ said:
The Etsy store is up.

https://www.etsy.com/shop/123one

I'll try and make / ship orders as quickly as I can, and keep everyone up to date on their order status.

You can save a few dollars ordering in quantity, as I don't have to pay the listing fee per item that way.

Shipping will be USPS Priority Mail in the Flat Rate Boxes to keep it simple.

Thanks Everyone!

cleats_6.jpg

Love the picture of the suspended vac.... Order is in. Malte
 
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