Magnet Insertion Tool (Low Profile)

This Magnet Insertion Tool (Low Profile) simplifies the task of inserting magnets in 3D prints - ensuring that the polarity of all inserted magnets is the same.  Its low profile makes a quick and easy job of inserting magnets during a pause in printing (for magnets that are embedded within an object) or after printing.

A convenient Button press is all that's needed to release the magnet once it's in place!

The following video shows the Magnet Insertion Tool being used to insert 4 magnets in an ongoing print - where the magnets will be embedded within the part… 

The following screenshot shows the CAD diagram of the Magnet Insertion Tool with transparent parts to illustrate the assembled tool...

The following photo shows two Magnet Insertion Tools with the magnets installed in opposite directions - to allow insertion of magnets with their poles in either direction (for example, to allow two separate objects to attach to each other magnetically)...

The provided STL files can be printed in PLA or PETG and do not require supports.

PrusaSlicer 3MF files are provided for PLA.

G-code files have been provided for PLA for the Original Prusa MK4 at 0.2mm layer height with a 15% gyroid infill and 3 perimeters (for strength).

PARTS NEEDED
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To make a Magnet Insertion Tool you need the following parts:

1 - one 5mm OD (outside diameter) by 40mm long compression spring.

2 - one round 6mm diameter by 3mm deep neodymium magnet.

3 - one or two round neodymium magnets - 6 or 8mm by 2 or 3mm - only needed to assist with alignment during assembly!

4 - one set of 3D printed INSIDE parts - these should be printed first.  Includes Rod, Gear, Button, Cover, and Spring Mount.  The non-printed parts will be needed to complete assembly of INSIDE parts (details below).

5 - one 3D printed SLEEVE part - this should be printed second (printed upright - no brim needed on my Prusa MK4 with a Smooth PEI sheet, but your printer might require a brim).

6 - one set of 3D printed OUTSIDE parts - these must be printed last; all other parts will be inserted into the Shell during a pause in the printing.  Includes Shell and Assembly Stand (holds sleeve during final part of printing, then discarded).

ASSEMBLY

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Please refer to provided images for detailed assembly instructions!

INSIDE Assembly:

1 - Acquire the spring and magnets and print the INSIDE parts and SLEEVE part.

2 - Slide the Gear onto the Rod.

3 - Make sure that the Gear is pushed all the way into the Rod; the fit should be snug - if not, apply Super Glue to secure these parts together.

4 - Press the 6 x 3mm neodymium magnet into the hole at the end of the Rod; the fit should be tight - if not, apply Super Glue to secure these parts together.

5 - Get the Sleeve (print it now if you haven't already!).

6 - Start sliding Rod with Gear into Sleeve - with flat sides aligned; use extra magnet(s) as shown below to keep the flat edges aligned until the tool is completed.

7 - Continue sliding Rod with Gear into Sleeve until Gear rests against end of Sleeve.

8 - Make sure Rod with Gear is fully inserted.

9 - Slide Spring onto Spring Mount.  All INSIDE Assembly is now complete!

OUTSIDE Assembly:

1 - Gather the assembled INSIDE parts, then start printing the OUTSIDE parts.  The provided 3MF files pause the print just before the Shell top is printed - allowing you to insert the INSIDE parts at the proper time.

2 - Slip the Spring Mount with Spring into the Shell.

3 - Confirm that the Spring Mount is fully inserted.

4 - Place the Button on the Shell per the following image.

5 - Slip the Sleeve with the Rod and Gear into the Shell per the following image.

6 - Confirm that the Sleeve with the Rod and Gear are fully inserted.

7 - Last chance - make sure your assembly matches the image to ensure proper operation!

8 - Flip over the Cover and insert it into the Shell.

9 - Confirm that the Cover is fully inserted, then RESUME PRINTING...

10 - All the INSIDE parts will be permanently sealed inside the Shell.

The completed Magnet Insertion Tool will appear as follows...

As soon as printing has completed, you can verify that the Magnet Insertion Tool operates properly by pressing and releasing the Button several times; it should be easy to press, and the embedded Spring should automatically push the Button back out to its resting position as soon as the Button is released, as seen in the following video...

USAGE

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1 - Place the Magnet Insertion Tool over a magnet with the flat side of the tool facing down to pick up a magnet.

2 - Move the Magnet Insertion Tool so the magnet is positioned in the hole where it is to be placed.

3 - Press the Button on the Magnet Insertion Tool and lift the tool up while continuing to press the Button.

4 - Release the Button and repeat with the next magnet to be inserted...

The Red/White Magnet Insertion Tool seen in the photos was printed on an Original Prusa MK4 with FilaCube White PLA + FilaCube Red PLA using Input Shaper with a 0.4mm nozzle at 0.2mm layer height with a 15% gyroid infill and 3 perimeters.

The Blue/White Magnet Insertion Tool seen in the photos was printed on an Original Prusa MK4 with FilaCube White PLA + generic Silk White PLA + generic Silk Blue PLA using Input Shaper with a 0.4mm nozzle at 0.2mm layer height with a 15% gyroid infill and 3 perimeters.  The polarity of the magnet embedded in this tool is opposite the polarity of the Red/White tool!

Be sure to check out my other designs - including honeycomb storage wall (HSW) accessories, universal key covers, and a diverse collection of household accessories and 3D printing tools - on Printables at https://www.printables.com/@PhilCaruso_661446/models