3d-printingHow-ToBeginner · 4 min read

3D Printing Project for Phone Stand: Design and Print Guide

To create a 3D printed phone stand, design a simple model with a base and angled support using CAD software, then export it as an .STL file. Use slicing software to prepare the file for your 3D printer, set appropriate print settings, and print the stand using materials like PLA or PETG.

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Syntax

Designing a 3D printed phone stand involves creating a 3D model with these key parts:

Base: The flat part that rests on the table.
Support: The angled part that holds the phone upright.
Phone Rest: A ledge or lip to keep the phone from sliding off.

After designing, export the model as an .STL file, then use slicing software to convert it into G-code for the printer.

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Design steps in CAD software:
1. Create a rectangle for the base (e.g., 100mm x 70mm).
2. Add an angled support (e.g., 60 degrees) rising from the base.
3. Add a small lip at the bottom of the support to hold the phone.
4. Export the model as 'phone_stand.stl'.

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Example

This example shows a simple 3D model design for a phone stand using OpenSCAD, a free CAD tool. The code creates a base, an angled support, and a lip to hold the phone.

openscad

base_length = 100;
base_width = 70;
base_height = 10;
support_thickness = 10;
support_angle = 60; // degrees
lip_height = 10;
lip_depth = 10;

// Base
cube([base_length, base_width, base_height]);

// Support
translate([0, base_width - support_thickness, base_height])
    rotate([support_angle, 0, 0])
    cube([base_length, support_thickness, base_height * 3]);

// Lip
translate([0, base_width - support_thickness, base_height])
    cube([lip_depth, support_thickness, lip_height]);

Output

A 3D model of a phone stand with a flat base, angled support, and front lip ready for export as STL.

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Common Pitfalls

Common mistakes when 3D printing a phone stand include:

Incorrect dimensions: The stand may be too small or large for your phone.
Weak support angle: If the angle is too steep or shallow, the phone may fall.
Missing lip: Without a lip, the phone can slide off easily.
Print settings: Using too low infill or layer height can make the stand fragile.

Always measure your phone and adjust the model accordingly. Use at least 20% infill and a layer height of 0.2mm for strength and detail.

openscad

/* Wrong way: No lip to hold phone */
cube([100, 70, 10]);
translate([0, 60, 10])
    rotate([60, 0, 0])
    cube([100, 10, 30]);

/* Right way: Add lip to prevent sliding */
translate([0, 60, 10])
    cube([10, 10, 10]);

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Quick Reference

Tips for a successful 3D printed phone stand:

Measure your phone dimensions before designing.
Use an angled support around 60 degrees for stability.
Include a lip or ledge to keep the phone from sliding.
Print with PLA or PETG for good strength and finish.
Set infill to 20-30% and layer height to 0.2mm for balance of speed and quality.

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Key Takeaways

Design your phone stand with a stable base, angled support, and a lip to hold the phone securely.

Export your design as an STL file and use slicing software to prepare it for 3D printing.

Use proper print settings like 20% infill and 0.2mm layer height for strength and detail.

Measure your phone carefully to ensure the stand fits well and holds it safely.

Avoid common mistakes like missing the lip or incorrect support angle to prevent phone slipping.