Snapmaker U1 - QuickChange Spool - Improved Clips

I wanted to improve and iterate on my Spool Holders to add a more robust clip solution that did not just rely on the thickness of the part as well as be able to change out the spool holder types as I have Rotating Spool Holders without bearings, with bearings, and fixed spool holders.

I have designed a clip and plug solution where users can mount a quick change plug to their printer and add and remove Spool holders as they want. I have started with a fixed spool holder as this was easiest to model and test.

This spool holder mount comes with 2 clip types - both should be printed in a tough but semi-flexible material such as PETG.

• A preloaded clip - Requires a M3x8 screw to spread the clip arms to secure the mount to the printer.
  • Pros: One Screw per Mount, Very Secure
  • Cons: PETG Creeps over time under load. The PETG will eventually want to stay in the arm-spread position Making removal more difficult.
     
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• A Reverse Clip -  Requires a M3x15-M3x20 to pull the arms in to remove the clip, and accepts an M5x10 to prevent the arms from flexing when mounted.
  • Pros: The Clip is only put under load when using the M3 Screw to pull the arms in to remove the clip. The M5 Is used to prevent flexing so it stays secure in the printer.
  • Cons: 2 screws - Though only one stays in the part. Over-torquing the screws can strip the M3 hole, making it hard to remove.
  • With M3 Screw:
  • With M5 Screw:

I will be upgrading my other spool holders to use the same mount system. But I am open to feedback in the meantime.

Bearing Spool On removable Mount: