Scalpel Truss Handle

The Scalpel Truss Handle is a 3D printed handle designed to hold a standard scalpel blade, used as a surgical cutting tool. It is available in two sizes, small and large, with CAD files provided for both.
The handle is 3D printed using ABS filament.
| Type | Medical Spare Parts |
|---|---|
| Authors | hunterfrerich |
| Location | UK |
| Status | Deployed |
| Verified by | Field Ready |
| Years | 2018 |
| Made | Yes |
| Tools | 3D Printer |
| Cost | USD3.41 |

| Design files | https://www.appropedia.org/File:HL004_Large_Eng_Dwg.zip https://www.appropedia.org/File:HL004_Small_Eng_Dwg.zip |
|---|---|
| Schematics | https://www.appropedia.org/File:HL004_Large_CAD.zip https://www.appropedia.org/File:HL004_Small_CAD.zip |
| Hardware license | CERN-OHL-S |
| Certifications | Verify |
| More Product Information | |
|---|---|
| Author Code | GN019 |
| Documentation License | CC-BY-4.0 |
| Open Hardware License | CERN |
| OSHWA Certification | January 3, 2020 |
| OSHWA UID | US000206 |
| Start Date (Development) | April 10, 2016 |
| End Date (Development) | April 1, 2019 |
| Designer | hunterfrerich |
| Maker | Brynmor John |
| Main Materials | ABS Plastic |
Readiness Levels
[edit | edit source]Levels are identified based on this reference: Field Ready Readiness Levels
| Readiness Criteria | Level |
|---|---|
| Field Readiness | 4 |
| Maker Readiness | 4 |
| User Readiness | 5 |
| Tech Readiness | 4 |
| Risk Readiness | 3 |
Manuals
[edit | edit source]Open the file using slicing software and prepare for 3D printing. Use the printing settings below (settings may need adjustment depending on the specific 3D printer brand and filament manufacturer used).

| Setting | Value |
|---|---|
| Layer Height | 0.20 mm |
| Line Width | 0.35 mm |
| Wall Thickness | 1.05 mm |
| Top/Bottom Thickness | 1.0 mm |
| Infill Density | 99% |
| Infill Pattern | Strong 3D |
| Printing Temperature | 240 °C |
| Build Plate Temperature | 80 °C |
| Flow | 100% |
| Retraction | Enabled, 6.5 mm distance, 25 mm/s speed |
| Print Speed | 60 mm/s |
| Print Cooling | Enabled, 5% fan speed |
| Support | No |
| Build Plate Adhesion | None |
Field Ready develops manuals to support both the fabrication and safe use of its products. A maker manual provides step-by-step instructions for replicating the design, including materials, tools, and assembly guidance, so that makers in different locations can build the product accurately and consistently. A user manual, where applicable, explains how to properly set up, use, and maintain the product once it is built, helping ensure it performs safely and as intended for the end user. Together, these manuals make the design accessible to both fabricators and the people who ultimately rely on the product.
| Authors | Charles Vincent Barrete |
|---|---|
| License | CC-BY-SA-4.0 |
| Organizations | Field Ready |
| Cite as | Charles Vincent Barrete (2026). "Scalpel Truss Handle". Appropedia. Retrieved September 20, 2026. |
