RG29X1L2 - Radius Gauge Set (2 - 30 mm)

While similar to commercial versions and other 'radius gauge' models on Printables, I designed this one because I couldn’t find an option that was parametric, offered the value range I needed, or looked aesthetically pleasing—and, of course, for the challenge! 

What sets this model apart is its sleek multicolour design, a unique split pin to hold the leaves together, and the inclusion of both the source file and a script for effortless STL export across a range of values.

Print Instructions

Set ‘Seam position’ to ‘Rear’ and rotate the the leaves so, that the seam is generate on their sides. You really don't want to have a seam somewhere near the ‘measuring feature’. Verify this in the ‘Preview’ tab, by selecting ‘Feature type’ in the ‘Legend’ Pane and activating ‘Seams’.

I suggest using PETG due to it's ductility, that I consider beneficial for an application like this. ASA/ABS will work fine as well, but are not as easy to print. With PLA I am worried about deformation of the leaves, especially when using darker colours.  

To get the most out of this model you need to setup a colour change. Use the ‘legend’ panel in the top left corner of the Preview to verify the colour change height.

The c-clips and pin halves are printed separately. Depending on the trust that you have in your printer, print more than one instance of each, these a tiny parts and even a small defect may render them useless.

Post Processing

For optimal operability sand down the high spots from the top layers. For that I simply used a sheet of wet sand paper on a flat surface. Optical smoothness isn't critical here, knock down the high spots with two to three strokes over the abrasive.

Assembly

I bet you can figure it out yourself, but anyway. Assembly works best when you put one of the c-clips on first, then connect the split pin halves and insert them into the stack. Put the second c clip on and you are good to go.

Customization

Find the Fusion 360 files in the download section. If you want to create a new value range, exporting a bunch of STL files will take forever, setup the Python script ‘parametric-stl-export.txt’ to do it automatically. You can find more info on that in the official Fusion 360 documentation. If you still struggle to do that, send me a DM or write a comment and I'll see how I can help; or if it's worth doing a video on automatic exports with Fusion 360.

To change the exported range update the two constants ata the top of the script.

MIN = 2
MAX = 30

To update the pin length accordingly set the n parameter in the 1007056-radius-gauge-pin.f3d file.