CAD expert for slicing/edits to an STL
Budget: £20 – £250 GBP
CAD Expert Needed to Slice STL Mesh & Design Interlocking Internal Joints (M5 Hardware)
Project Overview
I have an STL file of an F1-style rear wing flap featuring a gentle aerodynamic camber (a flattened curve profile when viewed from the side). The final, fully assembled display piece will be 1.1 meters wide.
Because this is too large to 3D print in one piece, I need a CAD expert to cleanly slice this STL mesh into 5 separate segments and design a hidden, interlocking joint system so they can be securely bolted together post-printing.
Specific Technical Requirements
Joint Style & Alignment: I am looking for a hidden, internal interlocking alignment system (such as a stepped lap joint, tongue-and-groove, or pocketed keys) so the exterior profile remains perfectly flush, seamless, and smooth when assembled. I am open to the designer’s recommendation on the best joint style based on the wing's internal volume and wall thickness.
Clearance/Tolerance: Please build a 0.2mm clearance into the interlocking male/female features so the 3D-printed parts slide together smoothly without binding.
Fastener Integration & Dimensions: Design a 4-bolt pattern at each joint using the following exact hardware specifications:
Receiving Side (Inserts): Model cylindrical holes/bosses tailored for tapered M5 brass heat-set inserts. The insert dimensions are: 7mm Length, 7mm Top Diameter, and 5mm Bottom Diameter. Please ensure adequate plastic wall thickness (boss diameter) around these holes to prevent the plastic from bulging or breaking during installation.
Passing Side (Bolts): Model a clearance hole for an M5 thread, paired with a countersunk pocket to accommodate a Hex Bolt with an 8.5mm Head Diameter and a 5mm Countersink Depth. The screw heads must sit completely flush or slightly sub-flush with the wing surface.
Orientation/Angle: All bolt holes and countersinks must be oriented normal (perpendicular) to the curved surface of the wing at their respective positions so the hardware sits perfectly straight.
Deliverables & Consultation:
5 cleanly sliced, print-ready STL or STEP files.
Please advise on the optimal bolt thread length I should purchase based on the final thickness of the joint you design.
Project Overview
I have an STL file of an F1-style rear wing flap featuring a gentle aerodynamic camber (a flattened curve profile when viewed from the side). The final, fully assembled display piece will be 1.1 meters wide.
Because this is too large to 3D print in one piece, I need a CAD expert to cleanly slice this STL mesh into 5 separate segments and design a hidden, interlocking joint system so they can be securely bolted together post-printing.
Specific Technical Requirements
Joint Style & Alignment: I am looking for a hidden, internal interlocking alignment system (such as a stepped lap joint, tongue-and-groove, or pocketed keys) so the exterior profile remains perfectly flush, seamless, and smooth when assembled. I am open to the designer’s recommendation on the best joint style based on the wing's internal volume and wall thickness.
Clearance/Tolerance: Please build a 0.2mm clearance into the interlocking male/female features so the 3D-printed parts slide together smoothly without binding.
Fastener Integration & Dimensions: Design a 4-bolt pattern at each joint using the following exact hardware specifications:
Receiving Side (Inserts): Model cylindrical holes/bosses tailored for tapered M5 brass heat-set inserts. The insert dimensions are: 7mm Length, 7mm Top Diameter, and 5mm Bottom Diameter. Please ensure adequate plastic wall thickness (boss diameter) around these holes to prevent the plastic from bulging or breaking during installation.
Passing Side (Bolts): Model a clearance hole for an M5 thread, paired with a countersunk pocket to accommodate a Hex Bolt with an 8.5mm Head Diameter and a 5mm Countersink Depth. The screw heads must sit completely flush or slightly sub-flush with the wing surface.
Orientation/Angle: All bolt holes and countersinks must be oriented normal (perpendicular) to the curved surface of the wing at their respective positions so the hardware sits perfectly straight.
Deliverables & Consultation:
5 cleanly sliced, print-ready STL or STEP files.
Please advise on the optimal bolt thread length I should purchase based on the final thickness of the joint you design.
Related categories:
CAD/CAM
Solidworks
AutoCAD
Product Design
3D Modelling
3D Design
3D Printing
Blender
Fusion 360
3D CAD