Push Latch Case

UPDATE(2/5/23) IMPORTANT PLEASE READ!

It seems that after the case stays closed for a while the “arm” becomes deformed and doesn't spring to its original position making the case not open correctly so I designed a new base cap and path insert so when it's in the close position the “arm” doesn't deform. This should make the case much more reliable and you can most likely print it out of PLA entirely if you would like! I have gone ahead and deleted the old “base cap” and “path insert” since they do not work correctly and replaced them with the new models. I would recommend also printing the “improved arm” over the original “arm”, see other update for details on improved arm.

UPDATE(1/28/23)

I have added an “improved arm” model that is more bendable, I have had the original “arm” design break on me and this design seems to be holding up much better; it is much more pliable than the original design. I would recommend printing the “improved arm” design over the original “arm”. I printed my arm at 0.3 layer heights and 0.45 line width. The bending portion of the arm should come out as two single walls. Be sure to turn off initial layer horizontal expansion if you have it enabled.

Print Settings/Print Notes:

I highly recommend printing at least the “arm” and the “spring” in PETG or a material with higher toughness, the rest of the components could be printed in PLA. I printed mine out of PETG at 0.3 layer heights, though smaller layer heights should be fine!

The arm should be printed by itself at higher temperatures to increase the strength. I printed mine at 260°C. I printed mine in a batch and they were snapping on me so I printed them singularly and it seemed to help with strength.

The “spring” must be printed in vase mode. I added a brim to mine and cut it off after it was finished.

No supports needed for any of the parts.

It should be pretty easy to tell the printing orientation of the models but let me know if you have questions!

You will need the following tools:

3d printer and 1.75mm filament

Side Cutters

Superglue

Calipers/Measuring Device

Knife

Scissors

Sandpaper

There is a set of build instructions included in the download!

As always I have included a step file for those who want to customize. I do not have a parameterized model at the moment though I may come out with one at some point. It should be pretty straightforward for someone with some basic CAD experience to adjust the sizing of the container on their own. 

Thank you for the support and happy printing!