Omnipanels - Square
Omnipanels - Square
3D
Published 2022-06-06T09:47:56+00:00
Update: I have changed the panels to a new improved design. While most of the images are of the old panels, they are functionally identical to the new ones.
Similar to the well known Polypanels by Devin Montes, this is the start of a new panel system I am designing (again). This is an improvement over my previous design 'Polypanel System V3' as it is now much more capable, while also being much simpler and easier to build with.
The system uses standard and internal connectors which allow four panels to join at an edge. This allows you to build a grid structure of any shape and size.
To build a grid structure with 'A' panels, you need to follow two simple rules:
1. When joining two panels in line, use the same connector type and orientation.
2. When joining two panels at right angles, use different connector types.
Sometimes two panels will not join at an edge. Here one or two stitches can be used, which are essentially loose connectors. Often you can instead replace one of the panels with a 'B' or 'C' type to make the joint fully rigid e.g. covering an 'A' type grid structure with 'B and 'C' panels provides maximum strength.
As you get more proficient with building, you can break the standard pattern and go into more freeform building. You should only need the 'A', 'B' and 'C' panels but I have included 'D','E' and 'F' panels variations if you need them.
The STL files have small brim areas pre attached to the connectors to aid with bed adhesion. These can simply be pulled off with your fingernails or some snips.
When joining a panel into an internal corner, there is a best procedure to follow so it goes in easily (see pictures). You should join the standard connector first, while the internal connector fits into a small clearance gap. Then rotate the internal connector into place and join along the second edge.
I have also included a panel tool, to more easily lever the panels apart. It is best to start at the weakest joint and move around the panel (and the reverse while assembling). The grooved side of the tool helps save your fingers when joining lots of panels together.
These are designed around thick layer heights e.g. 0.3mm and 2-3 perimeters with a standard 0.4mm nozzle for speed, but can be printed at finer layer heights if you desire. There is zero clearance between the connectors so in theory they could be scaled to any size. They are designed around PLA at standard scale.
Make sure you have good first layer adhesion. While elephants foot will not stop the panels working, it is best minimised if you can.
| Date published | 06/06/2022 |
| Dimensions | 60x60x6 |
| Technology | FDM |
| Support Free | YES |