October 18, 2024
Description
This print-in-place rotating latch can be attached (superglued) to almost any box with a slide-off lid. It allows you to easily “lock” and “unlock” the lid by rotating the latch. It's really useful when you find a box to print that has a sliding lid, but has no way to keep the lid closed.
Important: Print with Dynamic Flow Calibration enabled. Otherwise the parts may stick together too much.
After printing, place on the edge of a table like this:
Insert the “key” into the slot and rotate the key to break the inner circle loose. The tolerance between the parts is pretty tight at 0.2mm, but if it printed correctly it should only take a medium amount of effort to break it loose.
If you can't get it loose with this method, you can also use a large flat screwdriver or similar tool instead of the printed key to break it loose. Printing the latch with a smaller layer height might also help.
Identify where to put the latch. Ensure it is placed such that the lid will be blocked and unblocked based on the rotation of the latch.
Add a very small drop of superglue to the center of the back (flat side) of the inner circle. Be very careful not to get any on the outer circle or in the gap between the pieces.
Press firmly onto your box for 30-60 seconds, and let sit another 2 minutes before use. This should ensure the superglue has time to cure.
Dimensions:
The Fusion360 file is included so you can customize this to fit your size needs. Check out the User Parameters for quick customization variables.
For anyone curious, the box in the pictures is this Quoridor game box by Ritz.
License:
Standard Digital File License
Aptimex
