Screen Top Modification

[JonCherba]

Does anyone sell a kit for adding small cutouts for cords around the perimiter of one of these screen tops. I have a DIY kit from BRS for my 40 breeder and would like to clean up how the cords pass through.

 

[Soren]

Does anyone sell a kit for adding small cutouts for cords around the perimiter of one of these screen tops. I have a DIY kit from BRS for my 40 breeder and would like to clean up how the cords pass through.

I don't have a direct answer, but I have done a bit of work in 3D-modelling/printing in preparation for the screens on my current build.

The basic concept is a printed shape with tabs on the ends to fit the screen frames as well as a channel on the inside bottom edge to receive spline to hold the screen edge to the cut-out shape.

This design is a basic rectangular cut-out that I designed to fit around my light mount brackets.
The shape of the cut-out can be nearly any shape of whatever size is desired. For example, the inside cut-out could be rounded and sized to fit just a single chord, if desired.

Let me know if you are interested in models or 3D-printed cut-outs, as I might be able to help you out here if you cannot find a supplier that makes and sells what you are looking for.

I might develop a library of parts eventually to be 3D-printed and sold for exactly this purpose, though I have not tested my parts yet nor developed any business plans besides hobby interest if I can help out.

 

[JonCherba]

I don't have a direct answer, but I have done a bit of work in 3D-modelling/printing in preparation for the screens on my current build.

The basic concept is a printed shape with tabs on the ends to fit the screen frames as well as a channel on the inside bottom edge to receive spline to hold the screen edge to the cut-out shape.

This design is a basic rectangular cut-out that I designed to fit around my light mount brackets.
The shape of the cut-out can be nearly any shape of whatever size is desired. For example, the inside cut-out could be rounded and sized to fit just a single chord, if desired.

Let me know if you are interested in models or 3D-printed cut-outs, as I might be able to help you out here if you cannot find a supplier that makes and sells what you are looking for.

I might develop a library of parts eventually to be 3D-printed and sold for exactly this purpose, though I have not tested my parts yet nor developed any business plans besides hobby interest if I can help out.

I would absolutely love to work with you on getting some parts designed / built. I'm a CAD designer for a large utility company. I design stuff on the side. I don't have a 3D printer but I hope to have one in the future.

I can get some dimensions of my metal track, and any cords that will be in the way or anything else for that matter. Let me know.

 

[Soren]

I would absolutely love to work with you on getting some parts designed / built. I'm a CAD designer for a large utility company. I design stuff on the side. I don't have a 3D printer but I hope to have one in the future.

I can get some dimensions of my metal track, and any cords that will be in the way or anything else for that matter. Let me know.

If you have the BRS screen kit, your metal frame pieces should be identical to mine, since that is what my dimensions are based on. I mimicked dimensions from the included plastic corners to recreate the tabs and spline channel for my model.

The only design element I need to know to change the model should be the desired cut-out size(s) and shape(s).

If you can send me sketches of what you want including dimensions, I can make some model variants over my lunch break today.

Also, what CAD software do you use for your own designs? I work in SolidWorks 2017.

 

[JonCherba]

If you have the BRS screen kit, your metal frame pieces should be identical to mine, since that is what my dimensions are based on. I mimicked dimensions from the included plastic corners to recreate the tabs and spline channel for my model.

The only design element I need to know to change the model should be the desired cut-out size(s) and shape(s).

If you can send me sketches of what you want including dimensions, I can make some model variants over my lunch break today.

Also, what CAD software do you use for your own designs? I work in SolidWorks 2017.

I use Microstation primarily. I have used Autocad and I would love to and need to learn SolidWorks to expand my skillset. I will gather some dimensions and get some basic sketches over to you asap. I should be able to get stuff to you by the end of this week or early next week.

 

[JonCherba]

If you have the BRS screen kit, your metal frame pieces should be identical to mine, since that is what my dimensions are based on. I mimicked dimensions from the included plastic corners to recreate the tabs and spline channel for my model.

The only design element I need to know to change the model should be the desired cut-out size(s) and shape(s).

If you can send me sketches of what you want including dimensions, I can make some model variants over my lunch break today.

Also, what CAD software do you use for your own designs? I work in SolidWorks 2017.

I've added a QQ1 skimmer, changed the light, and I will be changing the filter as well once I upgrade this to a 20 long. When I get that tank setup with all the equipment I'll get all the shapes and dimensions to you regarding the screen lid modification.

Are you able to print a magnetic 90 degree holder for an optical water level sensor, I'm looking for one to use when making RODI water and for the tank level as well. I would need a few of them, I currently have 3 of them but I will probably double that number just to use for other things.

Maybe a probe holder as well, one that can handle 2-4 probes and a temp sensor...A modular magnetic probe holder would be great, so you can add or subtract probes as needed...At the moment i only have a PH probe and a temp sensor...

Dang I really need to get a 3D printer...

 

[JumboShrimp]

It might be a little large for your purpose, but how about the screen top drop in feeding port from BRS— “Neat” Brand, I believe?

 

[JonCherba]

It might be a little large for your purpose, but how about the screen top drop in feeding port from BRS— “Neat” Brand, I believe?

I actually have that feeding port, I purchased it when I purchased the screen top kit. It looks good quality.

 

[Soren]

I've added a QQ1 skimmer, changed the light, and I will be changing the filter as well once I upgrade this to a 20 long. When I get that tank setup with all the equipment I'll get all the shapes and dimensions to you regarding the screen lid modification.

Are you able to print a magnetic 90 degree holder for an optical water level sensor, I'm looking for one to use when making RODI water and for the tank level as well. I would need a few of them, I currently have 3 of them but I will probably double that number just to use for other things.

Maybe a probe holder as well, one that can handle 2-4 probes and a temp sensor...A modular magnetic probe holder would be great, so you can add or subtract probes as needed...At the moment i only have a PH probe and a temp sensor...

Dang I really need to get a 3D printer...

I have not experimented yet with printing to enclose magnets. I have plans to do so, but have not tested yet what magnets need to be used in order to have a strong-enough hold as well as how to ensure the plastic is sealed around the magnets to prevent corrosion. After experimentation, I may be able to print magnetic components in the future, but cannot offer that today.

For basic screen lid corners and cutouts, I can print them once you have dimensions/specifications sent. As it stands right now, my brother that owns and operates the 3D printer is getting married in 2 weeks, so I am not sure how much print time I can offer within the next month or so.

Send me your dimensions and specifications once you have them, and I will make models and send you drawings with dimensions to make sure the parts are what you want.

P.S. Get a 3D printer! I doubt you will regret it and will find endless uses with your reef tank.

 

[JonCherba]

I have not experimented yet with printing to enclose magnets. I have plans to do so, but have not tested yet what magnets need to be used in order to have a strong-enough hold as well as how to ensure the plastic is sealed around the magnets to prevent corrosion. After experimentation, I may be able to print magnetic components in the future, but cannot offer that today.

An opening for the magnet that is just a tiny bit deeper then the magnet to accommodate the use of silicone to hold the magnet inside is plenty fine to be honest. I have seen the use of an O-Ring to cushion the glass from the magnet. Even better would be to use dual extrusion to print some of that rubbery flex filament in the area thats against the glass.

For basic screen lid corners and cutouts, I can print them once you have dimensions/specifications sent. As it stands right now, my brother that owns and operates the 3D printer is getting married in 2 weeks, so I am not sure how much print time I can offer within the next month or so.

No huge hurry, A friend of mine that lives in Tucson offered to let me use his printer for some prints while I'm there in April. I just need to get him the files or bring them with me. Maybe you could help me out with some designs and files.

Send me your dimensions and specifications once you have them, and I will make models and send you drawings with dimensions to make sure the parts are what you want.

Sounds great!

P.S. Get a 3D printer! I doubt you will regret it and will find endless uses with your reef tank.

I plan on it as soon as I can!

 

[Soren]

An opening for the magnet that is just a tiny bit deeper then the magnet to accommodate the use of silicone to hold the magnet inside is plenty fine to be honest. I have seen the use of an O-Ring to cushion the glass from the magnet. Even better would be to use dual extrusion to print some of that rubbery flex filament in the area thats against the glass.

No huge hurry, A friend of mine that lives in Tucson offered to let me use his printer for some prints while I'm there in April. I just need to get him the files or bring them with me. Maybe you could help me out with some designs and files.

Sounds great!

I plan on it as soon as I can!

Providing the files for your own 3D printing (or through your friend) is no problem for me once I have the designs/dimensions.

Before I trust anything with magnets near saltwater, I'd like to do some testing. If you have ideas that you want to try, I can probably put together models and print files for you if you give specifications.

 

[JonCherba]

Providing the files for your own 3D printing (or through your friend) is no problem for me once I have the designs/dimensions.

Before I trust anything with magnets near saltwater, I'd like to do some testing. If you have ideas that you want to try, I can probably put together models and print files for you if you give specifications.

I found these magnets on Amazon, they have good reviews and they are epoxy coated. I thought about siliconing these into the 3D print then wrapping masking tape around the end with the magnet and fill it with an 1/8" or so of plastidip. should protect the magnets and the glass...Maybe smooth all of the print with sandpaper then dip the whole thing in the plastidip...Might be worth a shot, I'm working on a basic design. I'll send it over when I have it more nailed down, I'm getting an idea on dimensions and shape right now...

Amazon - Magnets

 

[Soren]

I found these magnets on Amazon, they have good reviews and they are epoxy coated. I thought about siliconing these into the 3D print then wrapping masking tape around the end with the magnet and fill it with an 1/8" or so of plastidip. should protect the magnets and the glass...Maybe smooth all of the print with sandpaper then dip the whole thing in the plastidip...Might be worth a shot, I'm working on a basic design. I'll send it over when I have it more nailed down, I'm getting an idea on dimensions and shape right now...

Amazon - Magnets

Thanks for the recommendation on magnets. I did not think to check for epoxy-coated magnets before.
I've got some on order and will start experimenting in saltwater as soon as they arrive.

 

[JonCherba]

Thanks for the recommendation on magnets. I did not think to check for epoxy-coated magnets before.
I've got some on order and will start experimenting in saltwater as soon as they arrive.

What kind of file types can you accept? I have a basic idea for a magnetic optic level sensor holder if you would like to take a look.

 

[DopamineKata]

Bulk reef supply sells them https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/4-pa...rium-screen-tops-bulk-reef-supply-bundle.html

Edit: Never mind, these don't appear to be the same as what comes with the red sea kits.

 

[Soren]

What kind of file types can you accept? I have a basic idea for a magnetic optic level sensor holder if you would like to take a look.

.STP or .STL are best transfer formats for me if you are working with software other than SolidWorks. The very best file types are .SLDPRT or .SLDASM as native SolidWorks file types.

 

[JonCherba]

.STP or .STL are best transfer formats for me if you are working with software other than SolidWorks. The very best file types are .SLDPRT or .SLDASM as native SolidWorks file types.

I'm pretty sure I can output the .STP and .STL filetypes, I'll see what I can do about the other two. How would you like me to get you any files to see what you think. I have a basic design for the Magnetic Optical Level Sensor Holder. At least the portion that goes into the 5gallon bucket. I even included a slight curve to accomodate for the curve of the inside of the bucket. I'm going to try to get a basic design down for the probe holder that will hold one of the waterproof DS18B20 temp probes...

 

[Soren]

I'm pretty sure I can output the .STP and .STL filetypes, I'll see what I can do about the other two. How would you like me to get you any files to see what you think. I have a basic design for the Magnetic Optical Level Sensor Holder. At least the portion that goes into the 5gallon bucket. I even included a slight curve to accomodate for the curve of the inside of the bucket. I'm going to try to get a basic design down for the probe holder that will hold one of the waterproof DS18B20 temp probes...

The first 2 formats are common transfer formats compatible with almost all 3D software types. The .STL format is often what is read by 3D-printer software to prepare the G-code that operates the printer hardware.

I will start a PM with you where we can discuss specific details and share files.

If you want to share any ideas through simple sketches with as many dimensions as possible, I am open to that as well. From the sketches, I can generate 3D models and dimensioned drawings to discuss and finalize design details.