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TrackAdvanced 3D Printing
Print-in-Place Mechanisms
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Advanced 3D Printing

Course Progress0/12

Print-in-Place

Print-in-Place MechanismsBall and Socket Joint

Snap-Fit Joints

Snap-Fit JointsDesign Snap-Fit Parts

Living Hinges

Living HingesDesign a Hinged Box

Threads & Fasteners

Printable ThreadsThreaded Container

Strength Optimization

Designing for StrengthReinforced Bracket

Desk Organizer Project

Desk Organizer Design BriefProject: Desk Organizer

Advanced 3D Printing

Course Progress0/12

Print-in-Place

Print-in-Place MechanismsBall and Socket Joint

Snap-Fit Joints

Snap-Fit JointsDesign Snap-Fit Parts

Living Hinges

Living HingesDesign a Hinged Box

Threads & Fasteners

Printable ThreadsThreaded Container

Strength Optimization

Designing for StrengthReinforced Bracket

Desk Organizer Project

Desk Organizer Design BriefProject: Desk Organizer

Print-in-Place: Magic on the Print Bed ⚙️

Print-in-Place Mechanism
3D printed mechanism with moving parts
Print-in-place (PIP) designs print as a complete assembly with moving parts!

How It Works

  1. Design parts with clearance gaps
  2. Print everything at once
  3. Parts are captured but can move freely
  4. Break free any temporary supports

Clearance Requirements

Movement TypeMinimum Gap
Rotating joint0.4-0.6mm
Sliding fit0.3-0.5mm
Hinge0.5-0.8mm
Chain link0.5-0.7mm

Common PIP Designs

  • Hinges: Captured pin design
  • Ball joints: Captive ball in socket
  • Gears: Meshing directly
  • Chains: Interlocking links
  • Fidget toys: Spinners, cubes