Clamping helping hand

I liked 3dfernando's Helping Hands , but I wanted a better way to hold them on to my really thin table and also more flexibility in being able to fix them to any other thing, so I thought they would remix really well with my Mini screw clamp .

I've redesigned the clamp to have a sturdier, stronger screw. This model still prints really well in place, though it's dependent on really tight tolerances . If there's interest I wouldn't mind uploading a looser clamp, though 3dfernando's original ball socket has a pretty tight fit anyway.

PLA is doable, but i don't really recommend it. PETG works wonderfully well for these parts. I've uploaded a thin version of the clamp (10mm), ideal for thin glass-top tables (like mine) or other supports, and a large version (20mm) that should cover something else. Over that, you're better off with a U -clamp like the original.

These files are untouched from the originals:

- ball_socket.stl

- Table_Clamp_Ball_Joint.stl

- Alligator_Clip_Receptacle.stl

Just insert your regular alligator clips with an M2 screw of your choice (6mm or shorter). I used M3's, but had to make the holes slightly bigger with a drill.

Extra hardware

- An M2 screw (ideally 4mm) and a bolt (ideally a thin square bolt).

- Alternatively an M3 screw and bolt, but you'll need to coerce them some.

- Obviously alligator clips, like these *, for example. (referral link)

Print instructions

Rafts: No

Supports: No

Resolution: 0.2mm

Infill: 30%

Notes:

- The ball sockets are best printed on their side, with support on the bed only, just to get the ball as round as possible.

- The clamp are printed without supports, in place. I recommend uping the perimeter count to 4 or more. The holes might require a bit of support if your printer doesn't do very well with overhangs, but I've get perfectly working pieces without them. There's a 0.2 gap between the moving parts. A gentle push once the piece has printed and they snap apart.

- The screw prints perfectly standing up without any supports.

- The table clamp ball joint and the alligator receptacle are best printed standing up with a generous brim, but without supports.