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I'm wondering if this can be done. Can I just take a wrapping paper tube and use that to properly secure my lightsaber electronics instead of 3d printing one, or could that possibly be a fire hazard? What if I covered the tube in electric tape? Thanks in advance!
Not advisable at all. Use a proper chassis solution. The store sells everything you need. You don’t necessarily have to use a 3D printed solution.
I know, but they're a little pricey in-store. I'm looking for something I could make out of everyday household items. Would a plastic tube possibly work?
That would be better. People have made pvc chassis in the past. Some very reputable smiths at that.
Just as long as it isn't flammable, then, it should be good?
The flammability isn't an issue.
Then what's the reason for not using a cardboard tube as a makeshift chassis?
A chassis’ purpose is to hold your components securely to prevent damage, prevent shorts, ensure proper operation, facilitate good wire management, etc. A cardboard tube would provide none of this.
The saber hobby is not a cheap one and one should not expect cost saving shortcuts to produce any reliable results. In the long run you will most likely spend more money on replacement parts than you would on a proper chassis solution and more time fixing issues.
Save up and do it right. That is my advice.
I agree.Quote:
Originally Posted by darth_chasm
I see you are in the US - your local big box hardware store will sell a 4 foot length of CPVC tubing that should be the perfect diameter for between $10 and $15 - from this you can make 3 or 4 chassis using a dremel, or hacksaw in a pinch.
I have done PVC chassis, TCSS chassis, purchased printed ones from Shapeways and eventually got a 3D printer and printed my own. Unless you buy a chassis designed for the hilt you are building, the chassis design and build is the most important and time consuming part of a build in my experience. It’s also the most rewarding because it’s finding the right solution rather than borrowing someone else’s. I agree with the others that this is the most important part to get right to secure, protect and insulate the fragile components and connections. The TCSS chassis parts are super affordable compared to the cost of damaging a board. There are options out there for cheap generic all in on chassis as well.
https://jbkuma.com/workshoppe/wp-con...3672964764.jpg
I did make this cardboard chassis, but it was only a temporary mock up and obviously more complex than simply a tube. If you are creative you can use the cardboard to design a solution you can make from better materials. Craft foam may also be helpful.
Out of curiosity what did you end of making that real chassis out of? because that is an awesome chassis solution I wish I knew of 2 weeks ago when I started modeling and 3D printing my own lolQuote:
Originally Posted by jbkuma
This was a few years back. I had it printed at shapeways, although I generally print everything at home these days unless someone specifically wants it printed elsewhere.