Modular Rotating PCB Vise (18mm rod)

About

This conglomeration of a few different uploads was combined to fit my use case, but maybe it will be useful for you as well.

This project is a clone of the Stickvise that is also on adjustable legs. You can loosen the blocks to move them along the conduit to accomodate any size PCB. The PCB can be easily removed with the springs installed on the movingblock.stl file, but they may be omitted if unavailable as shown in the gallery. You can also loosen the bolts on each leg to allow for rotation of the entire conduit and vise for better positioning.

Print 2x jaw_18mm.stl and 2x stand_18mm.stl, all others just 1x. I highly recommend PETG so the bolted friction joints do not loosen over time (PLA creeps and warps under tension for long durations!)

Hardware needed

8x M4 nuts

4x M4x30 countersunk bolts

5x M4x30 socket cap bolts

1x M4x20 socket cap bolt

2x M4 threaded inserts

2x springs

• Make sure they fit over M4 bolts and are not too stiff or too soft. Somewhere in the middle

Assembly

I figured I would include somewhat of a guide since I had some trouble at first figuring out the orientation of parts for assembly.

Begin by taking the fixedend_18mm.stl and inserting the M4 nut and M4x20 bolt into the slot for tensioning against the rod. Tighten only enough to grab the nut. 

Next, take one of the jaws_18mm.stl and align the groove in it as shown. Insert 2x countersunk M4 bolts and nuts and tighten most of the way. Before tightening completely, check and center the jaw on the fixed block, then tighten all the way.

Repeat this process with the other jaw and the movingblock_18mm.stl as shown, groove facing the side with countersinks.

Now take the adjustableend_18mm.stl and repeat step 1 with the rod clamping bolt and nut, using an M4x30mm socket cap this time. Add 2x M4 threaded inserts at this time as well as shown below.

Slide the adjustableend_18mm.stl and movingblock_18mm.stl onto the rod. This will help when aligning the springs. If no springs are being used, thread the M4x30mm screws through the countersunk holes on the moving block and thread into the inserts of the adjustable end and tighten. Otherwise, thread the M4x30mm socket cap screws into the countersunk holes as mentioned, then add your springs. Compress the pieces together and begin to screw in the bolts. Adjust according to preference, but make sure the bolts are even (aka screwed in the same distance)

Now you can add the fixed end to the rod as well.

Finally, add the last M4x30mm socket cap screws and nuts into the stands, tighten enough to just grab the nut. Then insert the rod with vise components installed and tighten. You are done!