FlexiGrowth Hooks

Updates

• 06-06-2023: More variations & Fixed wrong boolean operation
  • Updated all files
• 05-06-2023: First upload

The FlexiGrowth Hook allows you to guide and support the growth of climbing plants while keeping them away from directly climbing up a fence. Keeping climbing plants more aerated and supported has numerous benefits. 

Part

For the hook to hold the climbing plant, twine is guided through a v-slot towards the attachment point. You can navigate the string down and secure it with a knot around the handle. The other end of the twine can be guided around the base of the plant and anchored in the ground. I discovered that old chopsticks work surprisingly well if you place them at a very sharp angle in the soil. But you can use whatever you have available. The main thing to remember is to ensure the twine doesn't contact the ground. This helps prevent it from rotting or degrading.

Customizing

The following parameters are exposed to change the part to suit your needs better:

• Radius (distance in millimetres away from the attachment point)
• Thickness 
• Width (width of the v-slot and v-slot borders)
• Base Thickness (a section which is attached to the arc, handle and fence attachment)
• Fence Thickness (thickness of the fence attachment point)

Before printing, I recommend changing the 'Fence Thickness' parameter to the measured thickness of where you plan to hang the hook. The available files might be unsuitable because fences come in all shapes and sizes.

Print Settings

The print has to be quite sturdy, so using four or more perimeters and four solid top/bottom layers will be sufficient. Due to the design, most of the printing features will be perimeters. However, the base attachment point needs some infill (25%).

Printing with a 0.6mm or bigger nozzle also provides more strength. But a 0.4mm nozzle should also work.

Benefits

It promotes healthier growth by allowing for better air circulation and preventing moisture build-up, which can lead to mould and other plant diseases. Additionally, supporting climbing plants can help prevent damage to the plant's stems or branches caused by wind or heavy rain. This support also allows the plant to grow upright, preventing it from sprawling out and taking up too much space in your garden. 

Because the plant is well-aerated and supported, it can produce more blooms or fruit, resulting in a more bountiful harvest. 

Taking steps to keep climbing plants aerated and supported is a simple yet effective way to promote their health and maximize their potential.

Many climbing plants can benefit from being supported by a trellis or structure, such as tomatoes, beans, peas, cucumbers, and various vining flowers like morning glories and clematis. If you intend to grow heavier plants, you'll need to keep the strength of the hook in mind. Doubling the thickness parameters will ensure a more sturdy print and can hold more weight.

Printing Difficulty: II

I: Novice printing knowledge

• Basic understanding of 3D printing principles and processes.
• Familiarity with operating a 3D printer.
• Able to follow step-by-step instructions for printing simple designs.
• Limited experience troubleshooting common printing issues.

II: Intermediate understanding

• Proficient in 3D printing principles and processes.
• Comfortable with various 3D printer settings and parameters.
• Capable of handling more complex designs and making necessary adjustments.
• Able to troubleshoot common printing issues and optimize print quality.

III: Experienced

• Extensive knowledge and expertise in 3D printing.
• Proficient in advanced printing techniques, such as multi-material or multi-color printing.
• Skilled in fine-tuning printer settings for optimal results.
• Capable of handling complex and intricate designs.
• Experienced in troubleshooting and resolving various printing challenges.

Filaments

Because the print is exposed to the sun and has to be flexible yet sturdy, I recommend printing it in PETG, ASA or ABS. This will ensure the hook is strong and won't warp due to heat stress. I don't recommend using PLA because of its low glass transition temperature.

For my print, I used the following filament.

• PETG Prusament Urban Grey