Spring latch sliding door bolt lock: rubber band, metal spring, 3D printed spring

I really like door bolts. but if mounted vertically they tend to open themselves.

So here I have some sliding door bolts for you that can be mounted in every position without the risk of opening themselves :).

To explain the many parts:

1. I have 3 dimensions. They are just scaling up so they get stronger and you can use different wood screws.

small: Use with 3mm wood screws.

medium: small *1,15: Use with 3,5 mm wood screws.

big: small *1,3: Use with 4 mm wood screws.

1. I have 3 different versions with different characteristics

rubber: Use this version with a rubber band of your choice. Pro: smooth operating, strong. Contra: rubber bands will get brittle and need to be replaced before they tear.

metal_spring: Use this version with a metal spring (small version: 28 mm long, inner diameter 5 mm). Pro: very reliable, no maintenance needed. Contra: not as smooth as the rubber version, you need to get a special metal spring.

3d_spring: Here you can 3D print all parts (but the wood screws ,-)). Pro: Fast available, no extra parts needed, can be placed very close to a wall. Contra: Doesn´t work as smooth as the rest, not as strong as the other versions, some materials (like PLA) will weaken over time.

To make all versions work as smooth as possible use some lubricant. I prefer to use paraffin wax.

If you have some questions or suggestions for improvement don´t hesitate to contact me or write a comment :)

Have fun and keep printin!

PS: These locks can be used for many different applications. I mainly use them as lockable drawer handles.

Printing instructions:

• no supports needed

• print mit as many perimeters as you wish (the more the stronger).

• 25% infill will do the job. But if you go higher the lock will be stronger.

• Use tough material but good PLA will do the job just fine. (The 3D printed spring should be printed with materials like PETG).