Print-in-place parametric chain generator (no supports)

Try it out here -> https://pp.adacat.dev/m/chain

A friend of mine wanted some 3d printed chains for a project. I could have just designed a simple one-off model for them, but instead I let chains consume my life for 2 weeks to build this!

There are a couple of example chains uploaded here based on the generator presets, but I highly recommend you go check it out yourself and make a unique design just for you.

Using the generator you can create teensy little cute decorative chains (tho you may need a smaller nozzle than 0,4mm) or huuuuge chunky and extremely durable functional pieces. Using the spiral layout only your printer's build volume sets the limit for how long your chains can be!

Parameters

Here's a screenshot of the parameters you can change in the generator. A couple are only visible depending on other selections. On the actual generator you can hover over the little 🛈 for explanations.

The generator also tries to help by analyzing the generated design for any potential issues. Note that it is not always accurate, and will sometimes say something is hard or even impossible to print, while you may in fact be able to print it with enough tries or patience.

Tips

• Generate small chains to test before trying to make a giant 2 meter one :P

• Make sure your printer and filament are well calibrated. Smaller chains with more sides have very little material on the build plate - I highly recommend using the mouse-ear brims the generator can create - they are much easier to clean than the brim your slicer makes.

• The model relies on good bridging ability, so make sure you have tuned your bridging density and flow - alternatively if you do not mind supports you can of course use those

• I've had good success with the following slicer config, but any properly calibrated configuration should work I think:

  • 0,2mm layer height (0,1 for tiny chains like the ones from the smol preset)

  • Arachne wall generator (especially important for smaller chains, or they practically disappear)

  • Seam nearest, contour and hole scarf join together with Inner/Outer/Inner wall order to hide seams effectively

  • 3 wall perimeters, 3 bottom and top layers, 10% infill (wall perimeter count is the easiest dial to change to make them even sturdier)

Note that I have only tried printing the generated models in ABS on my Voron 2.4, and even then I had some difficulty with the harder ones - your mileage may vary, but please tell me about your successes (and failures too actually)!!