Bell 212 Heli Cyclic Grip
This page is split into three main sections:
Parts Guide
Print Guide
Build Guide
The ultimate printer I can recommend is the Bambu Labs X1 carbon with AMS or P1P if you have deep pockets. ($1200). It's a massive leap forward in 3D printing, with excellent quality and impressive speeds. It's pretty much press print and go as the software and hardware do the calibration before each print.
This design has taken years to get right in CAD. It's a very complex shape with many compound curves. It is designed to fit on the cyclic base or be used as a souvenir. I initially started this out with filament printing on my Ender 3, but then switched to Resin printing for that excellent, highly detailed finished look. Designed like the real thing with the exact dimensions and button count. The text is engraved, which allows it to be filled afterwards.
The top hat is a cheap $2 navigation switch, and the trigger has a dual detent press but only entirely operates by a single microswitch at the fully depressed position.
General Information:
Build Guide
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STEP:
0
Prep the parts, especially if using resin. Sand smooth with 200-400 grit sandpaper and remove any ridges, so the body is smooth. Use primer followed by black gloss. For a long-lasting finish, I followed up with clear gloss lacquer. Remember to add wires to all the electrical components before fitment and you can daisy chain all the common grounds to reduce the loom thickness.
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STEP:
1
Starting with the RHS, insert the Ultra mini microswitch into the body with the lever end point upwards. Secure the component with QTY 2, M2 x 10mm screws.
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STEP:
2
Insert the trigger and use a length of 2mm brass rod to support the component.
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STEP:
3
Insert a spring from the Amazon assortment compression spring box. For a stronger press, use two springs.
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STEP:
4
Insert the 6mm Beraring into the orifice followed by the spring.
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STEP:
5
Place the spring cap into postion and secure it with an M3 x 6mm screw.
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STEP:
6
Insert the Navigation switch. Ensure it is wired correctly and you do not need to wire the press button or encoder functions. Only the Up, Down, Left and right.
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STEP:
7
Insert a push switch into the LHS. Secure it with the supplied nut. If you have already prewired it, Feed the wires through first and dont forget to feed them through the nut also.
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STEP:
8
Insert the othe push button into the upper orifice.
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STEP:
9
Once again, ensure the nut is fed into poistion on the inside.
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STEP:
10
Insert the microswitch into the rectangle orifice on the insode of the unit. Wire two cables to COM and NC!
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STEP:
11
Insert the M3 x 6mm screw into the body to help secure the switch. If needed use a M3 washer for extra grip.
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STEP:
12
It should look lie the photo above, but with two wires attached!
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STEP:
13
Insert the button onto the switch base.
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STEP:
14
press the two halves together. Ensure no wires get trapped and the trigger does not foul or get stuck.
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STEP:
15
Insert an m4 x 30mm dome head screw into the upper orifice.
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STEP:
16
Insert QTY 2, M4 x 16mm dome head screws into the lower orifices.
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STEP:
17
Insert the top hat onto the navigation switch shaft.