Generic Organizer/Travel Case

A generic-use case for countless use-cases! A case-study on this case would find it's ideal to print just in-case, but at a case-by-case basis.

This case was designed based off of my Metric Tap Case I put together to hold some taps. Included are a variety of files for two main variants: one with the case filled-in, one with it hollowed-out. The filled-in variant can quickly be cut to hold shape-specific objects (similar to the metric tap case) and the hollowed-out variant can readily be printed to hold anything that fits.

For both variants, included are the .STL files for the top and bottom halves separated, and the halves combined in a laid-out configuration (how I printed mine). I initially ran into warping issues with the colder Fall temps, so I made a version with a brim incorporated where it's needed, excluding some of the straight edges. Paint-on supports are ideal to support the bridging latch, so I also included .3mf files that include this feature, as well as a solid infill block added to the hinges. Also included is the .stl file for a case I made to carry some spade bits, labeled on the top of the case, just in case anyone has some spade bits lying around they want to case up. Finally, included are .step and .f3d files of the variants for anyone out there that wants to modify the design.

The case uses the following hardware for the hinge:

2x M3x40mm Socket-Head Screws
2x M3 Lock Nuts

For assembly, do the following:

1. Clean off any brim & supports (if using them)
2. Mate the top and bottom halves as if the case is shut, lining up the hinges
3. Insert an M3 lock nut into the hex hole in one of the hinges
4. Slide in the M3x40mm screw in from the other side of the selected hinge, and turn until the threads engage with the lock nut. Don't completely tighten yet.
5. Repeat steps 3-4 for the other hinge.
6. Simultaneously tighten both screws until the case halves begin to have some resistance in opening.

To latch the case shut, shut the case and bend the tabs over. Apply pressure to the tab center until it snaps into place. To release, pull on the tab lip until it pops off, which may require excessive force until its “broken-in.” I tried designing this latching mechanism based on how PETG behaved, so other filaments may function differently.