Snap-in base to make custom Croc charms (no glue, no supports)

Introduction

Quickly turn your 3D designs into custom Croc charms with this system. Prints without supports; assembles without glue. It includes two parts:

• A base model (parametric_snap_base_Base.stl): one end inserts into the clog and the other end snaps into your 3D model. Print it as-is:

  • 3 walls

  • No supports

  • Works with 0% infill
    

• A STEP file containing a negative of the snap socket geometry (parametric_snap_base-top_negative_CUT_WITH_ME.step). Import into your CAD software and use it as a tool by performing a boolean cut from your model.

• Bonus: a small ready-to-print disc topper that snaps into the base and to which you can glue whatever you want to turn into a Croc charm

Use in your models

To use the STEP cutout tool, import it into your CAD software and position it inside your model so that the bottom of the tool is flush with the bottom of your model. Then use a boolean operation to cut the tool out of your model. That will leave a pocket in the bottom of your model with the correct geometry to snap into the base.

Note that your model must have space for the cutout tool: at least 2.5 mm deep and at least 9.5 mm across:

Assemble

To assemble your charm simply snap the top of the base (the crown) into the socket you cut in your model until it clicks. This is meant to be a tight fit; you may need to put the tow pieces on a flat surface and then press down with some force until it clicks.

If the snap is too tight (or too loose), you could adjust the flow ratio settings in your slicer to make sure your printer isn't over (or under) extruding. For a more permanent connection you can optionally use a drop of superglue in the socket (probably good idea if you're making an oversized charm).

The other end of the base can then be inserted through the hole on a Croc-style clog to hold your charm in place. To make it easier, insert at an angle.

Examples

Check out this model's remixes for some examples of charms made using it.

Modify this model

Also included is the FreeCAD project file. The VarSet contains many parameters that you can tweak to customize the model without needing to edit any sketches including clearance (increase to make snap-fit easier to press on), snap_width (increase to make snap more secure), and base_radius (the radius of the part of the base that snaps into the clog hole.