Improved GPS Belt Clip

Improved GPS Belt Clip

Project developed by John Bloom-Edmonds 

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Abstract

The goal of this project was to improve on a previous design which targeted to make a GPS belt clip, this is specifically targeted at search and rescue style GPS systems with a spine style mount. In this version I updated the design to be a single piece print rather than two parts that need to be glued. As well as cutting out excess material and making the part in openSCAD such that the part can be fully customizable to meet the needs of more than those with the specific device this was made for. With the new design a user should be able to customize this clip to not only mount GPS devices but also any device that can be slid into a slot for mounting, such as circular or t-slotted mounts.

Bill of Materials

1. Any filament you might have laying around (I used PLA but some higher strength filaments could be beneficial)
2. A 3D printer
3. A computer
   1. Source File: File:Belt Clip V2.scad
   2. Default Configuration STL File: Found on thingiverse here [1]

Tools needed for fabrication of the OSAT

1. MOST Delta RepRap or similar RepRap 3-D printer

Skills and Knowledge Necessary to Make the OSAT

• Basic 3D printer knowledge
• Basic slicer knowledge

Technical Specifications and Assembly Instructions

1. Download STL, or customize a new model and download
2. Slice STL file in slicer of choice
3. Print file
4. Slide device's mount into clip
5. Use to your heart's content

• Note: Print time will vary with print size but on average it should be around 20 mins

Common Problems and Solutions

You shouldn't have any issues when building this unless there are issues with your printer. Some of these printer problems could include:

• Part warping (check bed adhesion)
• Layer separation (check extruder/layer settings)

Cost savings

Similar clips cost around $12 USD on Amazon where as mine should cost ~$0.12 USD resulting in a $11.88 savings (or 99% savings)

• Though it should be noted these numbers are estimates and can change based on print size and filament cost. This also doesn't take into account electrical cost to print the object.

Benefited Internet Communities

Though these aren't exclusively internet communities, these are some groups that I think could benefit from this device:

• Michigan Search and Rescue [2]
• MTU Ridge Roamers [3]
• Public Safety/Police [4]
• Outdoor Adventure Club (for school trips specifically) [5]
• National Parks Rangers [6]

References

• There are no additional references other than the original designer vvmclain on youmagine (see here [7])