Need help designing connection between two parts (lemmy.helios42.de)

submitted 4 weeks ago by dfyx@lemmy.helios42.de to c/3dprinting@lemmy.world

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I'm working on a replacement for a broken shelf in my fridge door. It's about 37.6 cm (14.8") on the longest axis so I need to print it in two pieces (as shown in the screenshot). Does anyhone have a good idea for a connection between the two that will be sturdy enough? The fridge door will support it from below for about half of its depth, the rest hangs free.

Wall thickness is currently at 3mm but I can increase it a bit if needed.

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[-] fubarx@lemmy.world 1 points 4 weeks ago

You may want to do some research into Japanese wood joinery. There are some amazing techniques out there. Just one of them...

[-] akilou@sh.itjust.works 1 points 4 weeks ago

I believe this one is called the double penetration

[-] papalonian@lemmy.world 1 points 4 weeks ago

I would make two horizontal slots along the bottom of the tray, maybe 2-3cm wide and as long as you're able to print on your printer (pro tip: rotate long skinny models 45° to get ~40% extra length by printing corner to corner). Or even better, if you've got some spare sheet metal laying around throw those in the slots.

[-] ernest314@lemm.ee 1 points 4 weeks ago* (last edited 4 weeks ago)

If you're willing to change up the design aesthetic and have other materials lying around (e.g. dowels, rods, some kind of sheeting), you could also just print the "end caps" with slots for the main body.

This also has the advantage of being sturdier and maybe easier to print, but the design might be more involved.

this post was submitted on 15 Mar 2025

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