Category: Software

General-purpose computers doing something specific

Vacuum Tube LEDs: Radome Prototype

Definitely not a vacuum tube:

Arduino Pro Mini – NP-BX1 cell – SK6812 – blue phase

It’s running the same firmware, though, with the Arduino Pro Mini and the LEDs drawing power from the (mostly) defunct lithium battery.

The LED holder is identical to the Pirhana holder, with a 10 mm diameter recess punched into it for the SK6812 PCB:

Astable Multivibrator Battery Holder – Neopixel PCB – Slic3r

Those embossed legends sit in debossed rectangles for improved legibility. If I repeat it often enough, I’m sure I’ll remember which is which.

The 3.6 V (and declining) power supply may not produce as much light from the SK6812 LEDs, but it’s entirely adequate for anything other than a well-lit room. The 28 AWG silicone wires require a bit of careful dressing to emerge from the holes in the radome holder:

SK6812 LED PCB – Pirhana holder wiring

The firmware cycles through all the usual colors:

Arduino Pro Mini – NP-BX1 cell – SK6812 – orange phase

A pair of tensilized 22 AWG copper wires support the Pro Mini between the rear struts. The whole affair looks a bit heavier than I expected, though, so I should reduce the spider to a single pair of legs with a third hole in the bottom of the LED recess for the data wire.

The OpenSCAD source code needs some refactoring and tweaking, but the Pirhana LED solid model version of the battery holder should give you the general idea.

2019-01-29
Vacuum Tube LEDs: Arduino Pro Mini vs. NP-BX1 Battery

A year or so ago, a certain Young Engineer suggested my Vacuum Tube Lights really needed battery power and rebuffed my feeble objections concerning low LED intensity (3.6-ish V, not plug-in 5 V USB) and short run time (because three constantly lit LEDs draw too much current). Having a spare NP-BX1 holder lying about, here’s a feasibility study:

Arduino Pro Mini – Neopixel – NP-BX1 battery

Not much to it, eh?

Hitching the DSO150 to a Tek current probe (which needs a 50 Ω load, thus the terminator on the BNC tee) seems a clear-cut case of a sow’s ear joining forces with a silk purse:

DSO150 – Arduino Pro Mini – Neopixel current

It was just sitting there, so why not?

Seen with a bit more detail on a better scope:

Ard Mini – NP-BX1 – SK6812 – 10 mA-div

Each vertical increment represents the current into a single LED (at 10 mA/div), with the PWM cycles ticking along at 1.3 kHz.

The current steps aren’t the same height, because the LEDs have different forward voltages. The taller step (at the top) probably comes from the red LED, with the other two being blue and green. The maximum current is only 40 mA, not the 60 mA you’d expect with a 5 V supply.

The PWM width, of course, determines the brightness of each LED. Eyeballometrically, the average current will be half of 40 mA for (just less than) half of each PWM cycle, so figuring each SK6812 module (there’s only one here) will draw 10 mA seems reasonable.

The “base load” from the Arduino looks like 2 mA, so there’s not much point in removing its power and status LEDs.

The NP-BX1 lithium cell has lost enough capacity to no longer power my Sony HDR-AS30V helmet camera for at least half of a typical ride. The camera draws around 1 A, so you can clearly see the defunct batteries:

Sony NP-BX1 – 2018-04-24

If the average voltage during discharge is 3.3. V, then a 10 mA load would be 33 mW and a defunct NP-BX1 battery with 2 W·h capacity (at 1 A) might provide 60 hours of continuous use. I’d expect more capacity at lower current, although it’s not clear the cells actually behave that way.

So a battery-powered Vacuum Tube Light might make sense, perhaps as romantic illumination for techie snuggling:

21HB5A – Guilloche platter

Ya never know …

2019-01-28
Encrypted Email: What Could Possibly Go Wrong?

So this arrived from an email address similar to, yet not quite the same as, the URL of a physician’s office where I had an appointment a few days hence:

Encrypted Email Message

My email client is set to prefer plain text, disallow remote content, and not open attachments, so that’s as far as it got. Donning asbestos work gloves and face mask, I pried open the message and its attached HTML file with the appropriate tools and found, as expected, scripts doing who-know-what.

Called the office and, also as expected, was told my appointment time had been changed.

Showed up, mentioned it to the doctor, and was told the office must check off many boxes to demonstrate its HIPAA compliance.

Bottom line: HIPAA now requires patients (a.k.a., us) to open random attachments from random senders, all in the name of privacy.

Banks do that, too.

2019-01-21

Astable Multivibrator: Monochrome Pirhana LED

The LED parts box disgorged some single-color Pirhana-style LEDs:

Astable - 2N7000 - Mono Pirhana LED — Astable – 2N7000 – Mono Pirhana LED

Didn’t quite catch the blink, but the ~~Ping-Pong ball~~ radome lights up just as you’d expect.

The radome sits on a stripped-down RGB LED spider:

Astable Multivibrator Battery Holder - mono LED Spider - fit view — Astable Multivibrator Battery Holder – mono LED Spider – fit view

The circuitry is the same as the First Light version, with a 1 MΩ resistor stabilizing the LED ballast resistor:

Astable - 2N7000 - Mono Pirhana LED - detail — Astable – 2N7000 – Mono Pirhana LED – detail

Those are 1 µF ceramic caps in the astable section, so I’m no longer abusing electrolytics, and a stylin’ 100 nF film cap metering out the LED pulse up above.

Just for pretty, I’ve been using yellow / black wires for the battery connections and matching the LED color with its cathode lead.

The OpenSCAD source code as a GitHub Gist:

	// Holder for Li-Ion battery packs
	// Ed Nisley KE4ZNU January 2013
	// 2018-11-15 Adapted for 1.5 mm pogo pins, battery data table
	// 2018-12 RGB LED spider, general cleanups

	/* [Layout options] */

	BatteryName = "NP-BX1"; // [NP-BX1,NB-5L,NB-6L]

	RGBCircuit = false; // false = 1 strut pair, true = 2 pairs

	Layout = "Spider"; // [Build,Show,Fit,Case,Lid,Pins,RGBSpider,Spider]

	/* [Extrusion parameters] – must match reality! */
	// Print with +2 shells and 3 solid layers

	ThreadThick = 0.25;
	ThreadWidth = 0.40;

	HoleWindage = 0.2;

	function IntegerMultiple(Size,Unit) = Unit * ceil(Size / Unit);
	function IntegerLessMultiple(Size,Unit) = Unit * floor(Size / Unit);

	Protrusion = 0.1; // make holes end cleanly

	/* [Hidden] */

	inch = 25.4;

	BuildOffset = 3.0; // clearance for build layout

	Gap = 2.0; // separation for Fit parts

	//- Basic dimensions

	WallThick = 4*ThreadWidth; // holder sidewalls

	BaseThick = 6*ThreadThick; // bottom of holder to bottom of battery
	TopThick = 6*ThreadThick; // top of battery to top of holder

	//- Battery dimensions – rationalized from several samples
	// Coordinate origin at battery corner with contacts, key openings downward

	T_NAME = 0; // Name must fit recess, so don't get loquacious
	T_SIZE = 1;
	T_CONTACTS = 2;
	T_KEYS = 3;

	BatteryData = [
	["NP-BX1",[43.0,30.0,9.5],[[-0.75,6.0,6.2,"+"],[-0.75,16.0,6.2,"-"]],[[1.70,3.70,2.90],[1.70,3.60,2.90]]],
	["NB-5L", [45.0,32.0,8.0],[[-0.82,4.5,3.5,"-"],[-0.82,11.0,3.5,"+"]],[[2.2,0.75,2.0],[2.2,2.8,2.0]]],
	["NB-6L",[42.5,35.5,7.0],[[-0.85,5.50,3.05,"-"],[-0.85,11.90,3.05,"+"]],[[2.0,0.70,2.8],[2.0,2.00,2.8]]],
	];

	echo(str("Battery: ",BatteryName));

	BatteryIndex = search([BatteryName],BatteryData,1,0)[0];
	echo(str(" Index: ",BatteryIndex));

	BatterySize = BatteryData[BatteryIndex][T_SIZE]; // X = length, Y = width, Z = thickness
	echo(str(" Size: ",BatterySize));

	Contacts = BatteryData[BatteryIndex][T_CONTACTS]; // relative to battery edge, front, and bottom
	echo(str(" Contacts: ",Contacts));

	ContactOC = Contacts[1].y – Contacts[0].y; // + and – terminals for pogo pin contacts
	ContactCenter = Contacts[0].y + ContactOC/2;

	KeyBlocks = BatteryData[BatteryIndex][T_KEYS]; // recesses in battery face set X position
	echo(str(" Keys: ",KeyBlocks));

	//- Pin dimensions

	ID = 0;
	OD = 1;
	LENGTH = 2;

	PinShank = [1.5,2.0,6.5]; // shank, flange, compressed length
	PinFlange = [1.5,2.0,0.5]; // flange, length included in PinShank
	PinTip = [0.9,0.9,2.5]; // extended spring-loaded tip

	WireOD = 1.7; // wiring from pins to circuitry

	PinChannel = WireOD; // cut behind flange for solder overflow
	PinRecess = 3.0; // recess behind pin flange end for epoxy fill

	echo(str("Contact tip dia: ",PinTip[OD]));
	echo(str(" .. shank dia: ",PinShank[ID]));

	OverTravel = 0.5; // space beyond battery face at X origin

	//- Holder dimensions

	GuideRadius = ThreadWidth; // friction fit ridges
	GuideOffset = 7; // from compartment corners

	LidOverhang = 2.0; // atop of battery for retention
	LidClearance = LidOverhang * (BatterySize.z/BatterySize.x); // … clearance above battery for tilting
	echo(str("Lid clearance: ",LidClearance));

	CaseSize = [BatterySize.x + PinShank[LENGTH] + OverTravel + PinRecess + GuideRadius + WallThick,
	BatterySize.y + 2WallThick + 2GuideRadius,
	BatterySize.z + BaseThick + TopThick + LidClearance];
	echo(str("Case size: ",CaseSize));

	CaseOffset = [-(PinShank[LENGTH] + OverTravel + PinRecess),-(WallThick + GuideRadius),0]; // position around battery

	ThumbRadius = 10.0; // thumb opening at end of battery

	CornerRadius = 3*ThreadThick; // nice corner rounding

	LidSize = [-CaseOffset.x + LidOverhang,CaseSize.y,TopThick];

	LidOffset = [0.0,CaseOffset.y,0];

	//- Wire struts

	StrutDia = 1.6; // AWG 14 = 1.6 mm
	StrutSides = 3*4;

	StrutBase = [StrutDia,StrutDia + 4*WallThick,CaseSize.z – TopThick]; // ID = wire, OD = buildable

	//StrutOC = [IntegerLessMultiple(BatterySize.x – StrutBase[OD],5.0), // set easy OC wire spacing
	// IntegerMultiple(CaseSize.y + StrutBase[OD],5.0)];
	StrutOC = [IntegerLessMultiple(CaseSize.x – 2CornerRadius -2StrutBase[OD],5.0),
	IntegerMultiple(CaseSize.y + StrutBase[OD],5.0)];

	StrutOffset = [CaseSize.x/2 + CaseOffset.x,BatterySize.y/2]; // from case centerlines

	StrutAngle = atan(StrutOC.y/StrutOC.x);

	echo(str("Strut OC: ",StrutOC));

	//- RGB / Pirhana / Neopixel-ish LEDs

	RGBBody = [8.0,8.0,5.0]; // Z = body height

	PixelPCB = [4.0,10.0,3.0]; // Neopixel-ish PCBs, ID = chip window

	RGBPin = 5.0; // pin length
	RGBPinsOC = [5.0,5.0]; // pin layout

	RGBRecess = RGBBody.z + RGBPin/2; // maximum LED recess depth

	BallOD = 40.0; // radome sphere
	BallSides = 4*StrutSides; // nice number of sides

	BallPillar = [norm([RGBBody.x,RGBBody.y]),
	norm([RGBBody.x,RGBBody.y]) + 4*WallThick,
	StrutBase[OD] + RGBBody.z];
	BallChordM = BallOD/2 – sqrt(pow(BallOD/2,2) – (pow(BallPillar[OD],2))/4);
	echo(str("Ball chord depth: ",BallChordM));

	//———————-
	// Useful routines

	module PolyCyl(Dia,Height,ForceSides=0) { // based on nophead's polyholes

	Sides = (ForceSides != 0) ? ForceSides : (ceil(Dia) + 2);

	FixDia = Dia / cos(180/Sides);

	cylinder(r=(FixDia + HoleWindage)/2,h=Height,$fn=Sides);
	}

	//——————-
	//– Guides for tighter friction fit

	module Guides() {
	translate([GuideOffset,-GuideRadius,0])
	PolyCyl(2*GuideRadius,(BatterySize.z – Protrusion),4);
	translate([GuideOffset,(BatterySize.y + GuideRadius),0])
	PolyCyl(2*GuideRadius,(BatterySize.z – Protrusion),4);
	translate([(BatterySize.x – GuideOffset),-GuideRadius,0])
	PolyCyl(2*GuideRadius,(BatterySize.z – Protrusion),4);
	translate([(BatterySize.x – GuideOffset),(BatterySize.y + GuideRadius),0])
	PolyCyl(2*GuideRadius,(BatterySize.z – Protrusion),4);
	translate([(BatterySize.x + GuideRadius),GuideOffset/2,0])
	PolyCyl(2*GuideRadius,(BatterySize.z – Protrusion),4);
	translate([(BatterySize.x + GuideRadius),(BatterySize.y – GuideOffset/2),0])
	PolyCyl(2*GuideRadius,(BatterySize.z – Protrusion),4);

	}

	//– Contact pins
	// Rotated to put them in their natural oriention
	// Aligned to put tip base / end of shank at Overtravel limit

	module PinShape() {

	translate([-(PinShank[LENGTH] + OverTravel),0,0])
	rotate([0,90,0])
	rotate(180/6)
	union() {
	PolyCyl(PinTip[OD],PinShank[LENGTH] + PinTip[LENGTH],6);
	PolyCyl(PinShank[ID],PinShank[LENGTH] + Protrusion,6); // slight extension for clean cuts
	PolyCyl(PinFlange[OD],PinFlange[LENGTH],6);
	}
	}

	// Position pins to put end of shank at battery face
	// Does not include recess access into case

	module PinAssembly() {

	union() {
	for (p = Contacts)
	translate([0,p.y,p.z])
	PinShape();

	translate([-(PinShank[LENGTH] + OverTravel) + PinChannel/2, // solder space
	ContactCenter,
	Contacts[0].z])
	cube([PinChannel,
	(Contacts[1].y – Contacts[0].y + PinFlange[OD]),
	PinFlange[OD]],center=true);

	for (j=[-1,1]) // wire channels
	translate([-(PinShank[LENGTH] + OverTravel – PinChannel/2),
	j*ContactOC/4 + ContactCenter,
	Contacts[0].z – PinFlange[OD]/2])
	rotate(180/6)
	PolyCyl(WireOD,CaseSize.z,6);
	}
	}

	//– Case with origin at battery corner

	module Case() {

	difference() {

	union() {

	difference() {
	union() {
	translate([(CaseSize.x/2 + CaseOffset.x), // basic case shape
	(CaseSize.y/2 + CaseOffset.y),
	(CaseSize.z/2 – BaseThick)])
	hull()
	for (i=[-1,1], j=[-1,1], k=[-1,1])
	translate([i*(CaseSize.x/2 – CornerRadius),
	j*(CaseSize.y/2 – CornerRadius),
	k*(CaseSize.z/2 – CornerRadius)])
	sphere(r=CornerRadius/cos(180/8),$fn=8); // cos() fixes undersize spheres!

	for (i= RGBCircuit ? [-1,1] : -1) { // strut bases
	hull()
	for (j=[-1,1])
	translate([iStrutOC.x/2 + StrutOffset.x,jStrutOC.y/2 + StrutOffset.y,-BaseThick])
	rotate(180/StrutSides)
	cylinder(d=StrutBase[OD],h=StrutBase[LENGTH],$fn=StrutSides);

	translate([i*StrutOC.x/2 + StrutOffset.x,StrutOffset.y,StrutBase[LENGTH]/2 – BaseThick])
	cube([2*StrutBase[OD],StrutOC.y,StrutBase[LENGTH]],center=true); // blocks for fairing

	for (j=[-1,1]) // hemisphere caps
	translate([i*StrutOC.x/2 + StrutOffset.x,
	j*StrutOC.y/2 + StrutOffset.y,
	StrutBase[LENGTH] – BaseThick])
	rotate(180/StrutSides)
	sphere(d=StrutBase[OD]/cos(180/StrutSides),$fn=StrutSides);

	}
	}

	translate([-OverTravel,-GuideRadius,0])
	cube([(BatterySize.x + GuideRadius + OverTravel),
	(BatterySize.y + 2*GuideRadius),
	(BatterySize.z + LidClearance + Protrusion)]); // battery space

	translate([BatterySize.x/2,BatterySize.y/2,0]) // recess around battery name
	cube([0.8BatterySize.x,8,2ThreadThick],center=true);

	translate([CaseOffset.x + CaseSize.x/2,BatterySize.y/2,-BaseThick + ThreadThick – Protrusion]) // recess around battery name
	cube([0.75CaseSize.x,8,2ThreadThick],center=true);
	}

	Guides(); // improve friction fit

	translate([-OverTravel,-GuideRadius,0]) // battery keying blocks
	cube(KeyBlocks[0] + [OverTravel,GuideRadius,0],center=false);
	translate([-OverTravel,(BatterySize.y – KeyBlocks[1].y),0])
	cube(KeyBlocks[1] + [OverTravel,GuideRadius,0],center=false);

	translate([BatterySize.x/2,BatterySize.y/2,-ThreadThick])
	linear_extrude(height=2*ThreadThick,convexity=10)
	text(text=BatteryName,size=5,spacing=1.20,font="Arial:style:Bold",halign="center",valign="center");

	translate([CaseOffset.x + CaseSize.x/2,BatterySize.y/2,-BaseThick])
	linear_extrude(height=2*ThreadThick + Protrusion,convexity=10)
	mirror([0,1,0])
	text(text="KE4ZNU",size=6,spacing=1.20,font="Arial:style:Bold",halign="center",valign="center");
	}

	translate([2*CaseOffset.x, // battery top access
	(CaseOffset.y – Protrusion),
	BatterySize.z + LidClearance])
	cube([2CaseSize.x,(CaseSize.y + 2Protrusion),2*TopThick]);

	for (i2 = RGBCircuit ? [-1,1] : -1) { // strut wire holes and fairing
	for (j=[-1,1])
	translate([i2StrutOC.x/2 + StrutOffset.x,jStrutOC.y/2 + StrutOffset.y,0])
	rotate(180/StrutSides)
	PolyCyl(StrutBase[ID],2*StrutBase[LENGTH],StrutSides);

	for (i=[-1,1], j=[-1,1])
	translate([iStrutBase[OD] + (i2StrutOC.x/2 + StrutOffset.x),
	j*StrutOC.y/2 + StrutOffset.y,
	-(BaseThick + Protrusion)])
	rotate(180/StrutSides)
	PolyCyl(StrutBase[OD],StrutBase[LENGTH] + 2*Protrusion,StrutSides);
	}

	translate([(BatterySize.x – Protrusion), // remove thumb notch
	(CaseSize.y/2 + CaseOffset.y),
	(ThumbRadius)])
	rotate([90,0,0])
	rotate([0,90,0])
	cylinder(r=ThumbRadius,
	h=(WallThick + GuideRadius + 2*Protrusion),
	$fn=22);

	PinAssembly(); // pins and wiring

	translate([CaseOffset.x + PinRecess + Protrusion,(Contacts[1].y + Contacts[0].y)/2,Contacts[0].z])
	translate([-PinRecess,0,0])
	cube([2*PinRecess,
	(Contacts[1].y – Contacts[0].y + PinFlange[OD]/cos(180/6) + 2*HoleWindage),
	2*PinFlange[OD]],center=true); // pin insertion hole

	}

	}

	// Lid position offset to match case
	// The polarity indicator recesses are pure bodges

	module Lid() {

	union() {
	difference() {
	translate([-LidSize.x/2 + LidOffset.x + LidOverhang,LidSize.y/2 + LidOffset.y,0])
	difference() {
	hull()
	for (i=[-1,1], j=[-1,1], k=[-1,1])
	translate([i*(LidSize.x/2 – CornerRadius),
	j*(LidSize.y/2 – CornerRadius),
	k*(LidSize.z – CornerRadius)]) // double thickness for flat bottom
	sphere(r=CornerRadius,$fn=8);

	translate([0,0,-LidSize.z/2]) // remove bottom
	cube([(LidSize.x + 2Protrusion),(LidSize.y + 2Protrusion),LidSize.z],center=true);

	translate([LidSize.x/8,0,0])
	cube([LidSize.x/4,0.75LidSize.y,4ThreadThick],center=true); // epoxy recess
	}

	translate([0,0,-(Contacts[0].z + PinFlange[OD])]) // punch wire holes
	PinAssembly();

	for (n=[0,1]) // polarity recesses
	translate([-LidOverhang/2 – 0.40,Contacts[n].y,LidSize.z – ThreadThick/2])
	cube([4,4.5,ThreadThick + Protrusion],center=true);

	}

	for (n=[0,1]) // polarity indicators
	translate([-LidOverhang/2,Contacts[n].y,LidSize.z – 1*ThreadThick]) // … proud of surface
	rotate(90)
	linear_extrude(height=2*ThreadThick,convexity=10)
	text(text=Contacts[n][3],size=5,font="Arial:style:Bold",halign="center",valign="center");
	}

	}

	// Spider for RGB LED + radome atop vertical struts

	module RGBSpider() {

	difference() {
	union() {
	for (i=[-1,1], j=[-1,1]) {
	translate([iStrutOC.x/2,jStrutOC.y/2,StrutBase[OD]/2])
	rotate(180/StrutSides) // doesn't quite match crosspieces; close enough
	sphere(d=StrutBase[OD]/cos(180/StrutSides),$fn=StrutSides);
	translate([iStrutOC.x/2,jStrutOC.y/2,0])
	rotate(180/StrutSides)
	cylinder(d=StrutBase[OD],h=StrutBase[OD]/2,$fn=StrutSides);
	}

	for (m=[-1,1]) // connecting bars
	rotate(m*StrutAngle)
	translate([0,0,StrutBase[OD]/4])
	cube([norm(StrutOC),StrutBase[OD],StrutBase[OD]/2],center=true);

	translate([0,0,0]) // pillar for RGB LED and ball
	cylinder(d=BallPillar[OD],h=BallPillar[LENGTH],$fn=BallSides);
	}

	for (i=[-1,1], j=[-1,1]) // strut wires
	translate([iStrutOC.x/2,jStrutOC.y/2,-Protrusion])
	rotate(0)
	PolyCyl(StrutBase[ID],StrutBase[OD]/2,6);

	for (m=[-1,1], n=[0,1]) // RGBA wires through bars
	rotate(mStrutAngle + n180)
	translate([StrutOC.x/3,0,-Protrusion])
	PolyCyl(StrutBase[ID],StrutBase[OD],6);

	translate([0,0,BallOD/2 + BallPillar[LENGTH] – BallChordM]) // ball inset
	sphere(d=BallOD);

	translate([0,0,2*RGBBody.z + (BallPillar[LENGTH] – BallChordM) – RGBRecess]) // LED inset
	cube(RGBBody + [HoleWindage,HoleWindage,3*RGBBody.z],center=true); // XY clearance + huge height for E-Z cut

	translate([0,0,StrutBase[OD]/2]) // Neopixel recess
	PolyCyl(PixelPCB[OD],3*RGBBody.z,BallSides/2);

	for (m=[-1,1]) // RGBA wires through pillar
	rotate(m*StrutAngle)
	translate([0,0,StrutBase[OD]/2 + WireOD/2 + 0*Protrusion])
	cube([norm(StrutOC)/2,WireOD,WireOD],center=true);

	}
	}

	// Spider for single LED atop struts, with the ball
	// Aligned to struts at terminal end of battery on Y axis

	module Spider() {

	difference() {
	union() {
	for (j=[-1,1]) {
	translate([-StrutOC.x/2,j*StrutOC.y/2,StrutBase[OD]/2])
	rotate(180/StrutSides)
	sphere(d=StrutBase[OD]/cos(180/StrutSides),$fn=StrutSides);
	translate([-StrutOC.x/2,j*StrutOC.y/2,0])
	rotate(180/StrutSides)
	cylinder(d=StrutBase[OD],h=StrutBase[OD]/2,$fn=StrutSides);
	}

	translate([-StrutOC.x/2,0,StrutBase[OD]/4]) // connecting bars
	cube([StrutBase[OD]*cos(180/StrutSides),StrutOC.y,StrutBase[OD]/2],center=true);

	translate([-StrutOC.x/2,0,0]) // pillar for RGB LED and ball
	cylinder(d=BallPillar[OD],h=BallPillar[LENGTH],$fn=BallSides);
	}

	for (j=[-1,1]) // strut wires
	translate([-StrutOC.x/2,j*StrutOC.y/2,-Protrusion])
	rotate(0)
	PolyCyl(StrutBase[ID],StrutBase[OD]/2,6);

	translate([-StrutOC.x/2,0,0]) // wires through bars
	for (n=[-1,1])
	rotate(n*90)
	translate([StrutOC.x/3,0,-Protrusion])
	PolyCyl(StrutBase[ID],StrutBase[OD],6);

	translate([-StrutOC.x/2,0,-Protrusion]) // center hole for Neopixel
	rotate(180/6)
	PolyCyl(StrutBase[ID],StrutBase[OD],6);

	translate([-StrutOC.x/2,0,BallOD/2 + BallPillar[LENGTH] – BallChordM]) // ball inset
	sphere(d=BallOD);

	translate([-StrutOC.x/2,0,2*RGBBody.z + (BallPillar[LENGTH] – BallChordM) – RGBRecess]) // LED inset
	cube(RGBBody + [HoleWindage,HoleWindage,3*RGBBody.z],center=true); // XY clearance + huge height for E-Z cut

	translate([-StrutOC.x/2,0,StrutBase[OD]/2]) // Neopixel recess
	PolyCyl(PixelPCB[OD],3*RGBBody.z,BallSides/2);

	translate([-StrutOC.x/2,0,StrutBase[OD]/2 + WireOD/2 + 0*Protrusion]) // wire channels
	cube([WireOD,StrutOC.y/2,WireOD],center=true);

	}
	}

	//——————-
	// Build it!

	if (Layout == "Case")
	Case();

	if (Layout == "Lid")
	Lid();

	if (Layout == "RGBSpider") {
	RGBSpider();
	}

	if (Layout == "Spider") {
	Spider();
	}

	if (Layout == "Pins") {
	color("Silver",0.5)
	PinShape();
	PinAssembly();
	}

	if (Layout == "Fit") { // reveal pin assembly
	difference() {
	Case();

	translate([(CaseOffset.x – Protrusion),
	Contacts[1].y,
	Contacts[1].z])
	cube([(-CaseOffset.x + Protrusion),CaseSize.y,CaseSize.z]);

	translate([(CaseOffset.x – Protrusion),
	(CaseOffset.y – Protrusion),
	0])
	cube([(-CaseOffset.x + Protrusion),
	Contacts[0].y + Protrusion – CaseOffset.y,
	CaseSize.z]);
	}

	translate([0,0,BatterySize.z + Gap])
	Lid();

	color("Silver",0.15)
	PinAssembly();

	if (RGBCircuit) {
	translate([StrutOC.x/2,BatterySize.y/2,2*BatterySize.z])
	difference() {
	RGBSpider();
	rotate(180-StrutAngle)
	translate([0,0,-Protrusion])
	cube([norm(StrutOC),StrutBase[OD],2*BallPillar.z],center=false);
	}
	color("Green",0.35)
	translate([StrutOC.x/2,BatterySize.y/2,2*BatterySize.z + BallOD/2 + BallPillar[LENGTH] – BallChordM])
	sphere(d=BallOD);
	}
	else {
	difference() {
	translate([StrutOC.x/2,BatterySize.y/2,2*BatterySize.z])
	Spider();
	translate([-BallPillar[OD],BatterySize.y/2,2*BatterySize.z – Protrusion])
	cube([BallPillar[OD],StrutOC.y,2*BallPillar.z],center=false);
	}
	color("Green",0.35)
	translate([0,BatterySize.y/2,2*BatterySize.z + BallOD/2 + BallPillar[LENGTH] – BallChordM])
	sphere(d=BallOD);
	}
	}

	if (Layout == "Build") {
	rotate(90) {
	translate([-BatterySize.x/2,-BatterySize.y/2,BaseThick])
	Case();
	translate([-CaseSize.x + LidSize.x,-(LidSize.y/2 + LidOffset.y),0])
	Lid();
	if (RGBCircuit)
	translate([StrutOC.x + BatterySize.x/2,0,0])
	RGBSpider();
	else
	translate([StrutOC.x + BatterySize.x/2,0,0])
	Spider();
	}
	}

	if (Layout == "Show") {
	Case();
	translate([0,0,(BatterySize.z + Gap)])
	Lid();
	color("Silver",0.25)
	PinAssembly();
	if (RGBCircuit) {
	translate([StrutOC.x/2,BatterySize.y/2,2*BatterySize.z])
	RGBSpider();
	color("Green",0.35)
	translate([StrutOC.x/2,BatterySize.y/2,2*BatterySize.z + BallOD/2 + BallPillar[LENGTH] – BallChordM])
	sphere(d=BallOD);
	}
	else {
	translate([StrutOC.x/2,BatterySize.y/2,2*BatterySize.z])
	Spider();
	color("Green",0.35)
	translate([0,BatterySize.y/2,2*BatterySize.z + BallOD/2 + BallPillar[LENGTH] – BallChordM])
	sphere(d=BallOD);
	}
	}

view raw Astable Multivibrator Battery Holder.scad hosted with ❤ by GitHub

2019-01-17

Debossed Printed Legends

[Update: It seems I interchanged “em” and “de” throughout this post. ]

Up to this point, I’ve been labeling printed parts with emdebossed legends that look OK on the solid model:

Astable Multivibrator Battery Holder

Alas, the recessed letters become lost in their perimeter threads:

3D Printed Legend – Embossed

Raising the legend above the surface (“deembossing”) works reasonably well, but raised letters would interfere with sliding the battery into the holder and tend to get lost amid the surface infill pattern.

The blindingly obvious solution, after far too long, raises the letters above a frame embossed into the surface:

Astable Multivibrator Battery Holder – Legend Debossed

Which looks OK in the real world, too:

3D Printed Legend – Debossed

The frame is one thread deep and the legend is one thread tall, putting the letters flush with the surrounding surface and allowing the battery to slide smoothly.

The legend on the bottom surface shows even more improvement:

NP-BX1 battery holder – Raised vs Recessed Legend

An OpenSCAD program can’t get the size of a rendered text string, so the fixed-size frame must surround the largest possible text, which isn’t much of a problem for my simple needs.

2019-01-14
Siglent SDM3045X Screen Shot File
As with the Siglent SDS2304X oscilloscope, the SDM3045M multimeter delivers broken screen shot files over the network: the actual file size doesn’t match the BMP file size field, causing kvetching in subsequent use:
```
[ed@shiitake tmp]$ lxi screenshot -a 192.168.1.41 -p siglent-sdm3000 test.bmp
Saved screenshot image to test.bmp
[ed@shiitake tmp]$ convert test.bmp test.png
convert-im6.q16: length and filesize do not match `test.bmp' @ warning/bmp.c/ReadBMPImage/831.
```
Files stored on a USB stick jammed into the meter’s front panel have the correct size, so it’s not clear where the fault lies.

Because the files contain extra data following the (intact) image, it will display correctly:

Astable – 2N7000 – IDSS cal

The BMP header contains the correct size at offset +0x02:
```
lxi screenshot -a 192.168.1.41 -p siglent-sdm3000 test.bmp
hexdump -C test.bmp | head
00000000  42 4d 36 fa 05 00 00 00  00 00 36 00 00 00 28 00  |BM6.......6...(.|
00000010  00 00 e0 01 00 00 10 01  00 00 01 00 18 00 00 00  |................|
00000020  00 00 00 fa 05 00 00 00  00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00  |................|
00000030  00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00  00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00  |................|
```
The horizontal image size at +0x12 and vertical size at +0x6 are correct: the screen is 480×272 pixels. Each pixel has three bytes = 24 bits, as specified at +0x1C.

So the file should contain 0x0005fa36 = 391734 bytes, but, as delivered, it’s much, much larger:
```
ll --block-size=1 test.bmp
-rw-rw-r-- 1 ed ed 1152054 Dec 26 08:45 test.bmp
```
Oddly, 1552054 bytes is exactly the size the oscilloscope files should be. I have no explanation, although it looks like a copypasta error.

As before, the simplest solution is to truncate the file and be done with it:
```
#!/bin/bash
lxi screenshot -a 192.168.1.41 -p siglent-sdm3000 /tmp/"$1".bmp
truncate --size=391734 /tmp/"$1".bmp
convert /tmp/"$1".bmp "$1".png
echo Screenshot: "$1".png
```
And then It Just Works:
```
~/bin/getsdm3045x.sh testfix
Saved screenshot image to /tmp/testfix.bmp
Screenshot: testfix.png
```
Sheesh & similar remarks.
2019-01-09

Astable Multivibrator: RGB LED and Radome Spider

Well, a spider with half the proper leg count:

RGB LED - radome test — RGB LED – radome test

One could argue the LED spider has an unusually large abdomen, but I’m not going there.

The solid model looks the same way:

Astable Multivibrator Battery Holder - RGB LED Spider - radome — Astable Multivibrator Battery Holder – RGB LED Spider – radome

And, yes, those are eye protection caps over the four wire struts, most useful during construction while maneuvering the radome into position.

For reasons unknown to me, they’re called “Pirhana” LEDs:

I trimmed off half of each pin, soldered on 28 AWG color-coded silicone wires, threaded wires through openings, then rammed the LED package into the recess so it sits just below the radome’s curve. The dent matching the ball comes from the chord equation, as always, and looks pretty good.

The radome is, of course, a one-star ping pong ball from the usual big box retailer’s sporting goods section. The stamped logo sits at a random position with respect to the ball’s interior structure (visible when lit, as in the top picture), so I erased it with a fine-grit sanding sponge. Hollow plastic golf balls might work just as well, with an even more interesting surface texture.

The source code includes a cutaway look at the printed parts to verify their innards:

Astable Multivibrator Battery Holder - RGB LED Spider - fit view — Astable Multivibrator Battery Holder – RGB LED Spider – fit view

The OpenSCAD source code as a GitHub Gist:

	// Holder for Li-Ion battery packs
	// Ed Nisley KE4ZNU January 2013
	// 2018-11-15 Adapted for 1.5 mm pogo pins, battery data table
	// 2018-12 RGB LED spider, general cleanups

	/* [Layout options] */

	BatteryName = "NP-BX1"; // [NP-BX1,NB-5L,NB-6L]

	RGBCircuit = true; // false = 1 strut pair, true = 2 pairs

	Layout = "Case"; // [Build,Show,Fit,Case,Lid,Pins,RGBSpider]

	/* [Extrusion parameters] – must match reality! */
	// Print with +2 shells and 3 solid layers

	ThreadThick = 0.25;
	ThreadWidth = 0.40;

	HoleWindage = 0.2;

	function IntegerMultiple(Size,Unit) = Unit * ceil(Size / Unit);
	function IntegerLessMultiple(Size,Unit) = Unit * floor(Size / Unit);

	Protrusion = 0.1; // make holes end cleanly

	/* [Hidden] */

	inch = 25.4;

	BuildOffset = 3.0; // clearance for build layout

	Gap = 2.0; // separation for Fit parts

	//- Basic dimensions

	WallThick = 4*ThreadWidth; // holder sidewalls

	BaseThick = 6*ThreadThick; // bottom of holder to bottom of battery
	TopThick = 6*ThreadThick; // top of battery to top of holder

	//- Battery dimensions – rationalized from several samples
	// Coordinate origin at battery corner with contacts, key openings downward

	T_NAME = 0; // Name must fit recess, so don't get loquacious
	T_SIZE = 1;
	T_CONTACTS = 2;
	T_KEYS = 3;

	BatteryData = [
	["NP-BX1",[43.0,30.0,9.5],[[-0.75,6.0,6.2],[-0.75,16.0,6.2]],[[1.70,3.70,2.90],[1.70,3.60,2.90]]],
	["NB-5L", [45.0,32.0,8.0],[[-0.82,4.5,3.5],[-0.82,11.0,3.5]],[[2.2,0.75,2.0],[2.2,2.8,2.0]]],
	["NB-6L",[42.5,35.5,7.0],[[-0.85,5.50,3.05],[-0.85,11.90,3.05]],[[2.0,0.70,2.8],[2.0,2.00,2.8]]],
	];

	echo(str("Battery: ",BatteryName));

	BatteryIndex = search([BatteryName],BatteryData,1,0)[0];
	echo(str(" Index: ",BatteryIndex));

	BatterySize = BatteryData[BatteryIndex][T_SIZE]; // X = length, Y = width, Z = thickness
	echo(str(" Size: ",BatterySize));

	Contacts = BatteryData[BatteryIndex][T_CONTACTS]; // relative to battery edge, front, and bottom
	echo(str(" Contacts: ",Contacts));

	ContactOC = Contacts[1].y – Contacts[0].y; // + and – terminals for pogo pin contacts
	ContactCenter = Contacts[0].y + ContactOC/2;

	KeyBlocks = BatteryData[BatteryIndex][T_KEYS]; // recesses in battery face set X position
	echo(str(" Keys: ",KeyBlocks));

	//- Pin dimensions

	ID = 0;
	OD = 1;
	LENGTH = 2;

	PinShank = [1.5,2.0,6.5]; // shank, flange, compressed length
	PinFlange = [1.5,2.0,0.5]; // flange, length included in PinShank
	PinTip = [0.9,0.9,2.5]; // extended spring-loaded tip

	WireOD = 1.7; // wiring from pins to circuitry

	PinChannel = WireOD; // cut behind flange for solder overflow
	PinRecess = 3.0; // recess behind pin flange end for epoxy fill

	echo(str("Contact tip dia: ",PinTip[OD]));
	echo(str(" .. shank dia: ",PinShank[ID]));

	OverTravel = 0.5; // space beyond battery face at X origin

	//- Holder dimensions

	GuideRadius = ThreadWidth; // friction fit ridges
	GuideOffset = 7; // from compartment corners

	LidOverhang = 2.0; // atop of battery for retention
	LidClearance = LidOverhang * (BatterySize.z/BatterySize.x); // … clearance above battery for tilting
	echo(str("Lid clearance: ",LidClearance));

	CaseSize = [BatterySize.x + PinShank[LENGTH] + OverTravel + PinRecess + GuideRadius + WallThick,
	BatterySize.y + 2WallThick + 2GuideRadius,
	BatterySize.z + BaseThick + TopThick + LidClearance];
	echo(str("Case size: ",CaseSize));

	CaseOffset = [-(PinShank[LENGTH] + OverTravel + PinRecess),-(WallThick + GuideRadius),0]; // position around battery

	ThumbRadius = 10.0; // thumb opening at end of battery

	CornerRadius = 3*ThreadThick; // nice corner rounding

	LidSize = [-CaseOffset.x + LidOverhang,CaseSize.y,TopThick];

	LidOffset = [0.0,CaseOffset.y,0];

	//- Wire struts

	StrutDia = 1.6; // AWG 14 = 1.6 mm
	StrutSides = 3*4;

	StrutBase = [StrutDia,StrutDia + 4*WallThick,CaseSize.z – TopThick]; // ID = wire, OD = buildable

	//StrutOC = [IntegerLessMultiple(BatterySize.x – StrutBase[OD],5.0), // set easy OC wire spacing
	// IntegerMultiple(CaseSize.y + StrutBase[OD],5.0)];
	StrutOC = [IntegerLessMultiple(CaseSize.x – 2CornerRadius -2StrutBase[OD],5.0),
	IntegerMultiple(CaseSize.y + StrutBase[OD],5.0)];

	StrutOffset = [CaseSize.x/2 + CaseOffset.x,BatterySize.y/2]; // from case centerlines

	StrutAngle = atan(StrutOC.y/StrutOC.x);

	echo(str("Strut OC: ",StrutOC));

	//- RGB LED

	RGBBody = [8.0,8.0,5.0]; // Z = body height

	RGBPin = 5.0; // pin length
	RGBPinsOC = [5.0,5.0]; // pin layout

	RGBRecess = RGBBody.z + RGBPin/2; // maximum LED recess depth

	BallOD = 40.0; // radome sphere
	BallSides = 4*StrutSides; // nice number of sides

	BallPillar = [norm([RGBBody.x,RGBBody.y]),
	norm([RGBBody.x,RGBBody.y]) + 4*WallThick,
	StrutBase[OD] + RGBBody.z];
	BallChordM = BallOD/2 – sqrt(pow(BallOD/2,2) – (pow(BallPillar[OD],2))/4);
	echo(str("Ball chord depth: ",BallChordM));

	//———————-
	// Useful routines

	module PolyCyl(Dia,Height,ForceSides=0) { // based on nophead's polyholes

	Sides = (ForceSides != 0) ? ForceSides : (ceil(Dia) + 2);

	FixDia = Dia / cos(180/Sides);

	cylinder(r=(FixDia + HoleWindage)/2,h=Height,$fn=Sides);
	}

	//——————-
	//– Guides for tighter friction fit

	module Guides() {
	translate([GuideOffset,-GuideRadius,0])
	PolyCyl(2*GuideRadius,(BatterySize.z – Protrusion),4);
	translate([GuideOffset,(BatterySize.y + GuideRadius),0])
	PolyCyl(2*GuideRadius,(BatterySize.z – Protrusion),4);
	translate([(BatterySize.x – GuideOffset),-GuideRadius,0])
	PolyCyl(2*GuideRadius,(BatterySize.z – Protrusion),4);
	translate([(BatterySize.x – GuideOffset),(BatterySize.y + GuideRadius),0])
	PolyCyl(2*GuideRadius,(BatterySize.z – Protrusion),4);
	translate([(BatterySize.x + GuideRadius),GuideOffset/2,0])
	PolyCyl(2*GuideRadius,(BatterySize.z – Protrusion),4);
	translate([(BatterySize.x + GuideRadius),(BatterySize.y – GuideOffset/2),0])
	PolyCyl(2*GuideRadius,(BatterySize.z – Protrusion),4);

	}

	//– Contact pins
	// Rotated to put them in their natural oriention
	// Aligned to put tip base / end of shank at Overtravel limit

	module PinShape() {

	translate([-(PinShank[LENGTH] + OverTravel),0,0])
	rotate([0,90,0])
	rotate(180/6)
	union() {
	PolyCyl(PinTip[OD],PinShank[LENGTH] + PinTip[LENGTH],6);
	PolyCyl(PinShank[ID],PinShank[LENGTH] + Protrusion,6); // slight extension for clean cuts
	PolyCyl(PinFlange[OD],PinFlange[LENGTH],6);
	}
	}

	// Position pins to put end of shank at battery face
	// Does not include recess access into case

	module PinAssembly() {

	union() {
	for (p = Contacts)
	translate([0,p.y,p.z])
	PinShape();

	translate([-(PinShank[LENGTH] + OverTravel) + PinChannel/2, // solder space
	ContactCenter,
	Contacts[0].z])
	cube([PinChannel,
	(Contacts[1].y – Contacts[0].y + PinFlange[OD]),
	PinFlange[OD]],center=true);

	for (j=[-1,1]) // wire channels
	translate([-(PinShank[LENGTH] + OverTravel – PinChannel/2),
	j*ContactOC/4 + ContactCenter,
	Contacts[0].z – PinFlange[OD]/2])
	rotate(180/6)
	PolyCyl(WireOD,CaseSize.z,6);
	}
	}

	//– Case with origin at battery corner

	module Case() {

	difference() {

	union() {

	difference() {
	union() {
	translate([(CaseSize.x/2 + CaseOffset.x), // basic case shape
	(CaseSize.y/2 + CaseOffset.y),
	(CaseSize.z/2 – BaseThick)])
	hull()
	for (i=[-1,1], j=[-1,1], k=[-1,1])
	translate([i*(CaseSize.x/2 – CornerRadius),
	j*(CaseSize.y/2 – CornerRadius),
	k*(CaseSize.z/2 – CornerRadius)])
	sphere(r=CornerRadius/cos(180/8),$fn=8); // cos() fixes undersize spheres!

	for (i= RGBCircuit ? [-1,1] : -1) { // strut bases
	hull()
	for (j=[-1,1])
	translate([iStrutOC.x/2 + StrutOffset.x,jStrutOC.y/2 + StrutOffset.y,-BaseThick])
	rotate(180/StrutSides)
	cylinder(d=StrutBase[OD],h=StrutBase[LENGTH],$fn=StrutSides);

	translate([i*StrutOC.x/2 + StrutOffset.x,StrutOffset.y,StrutBase[LENGTH]/2 – BaseThick])
	cube([2*StrutBase[OD],StrutOC.y,StrutBase[LENGTH]],center=true); // blocks for fairing

	for (j=[-1,1]) // hemisphere caps
	translate([i*StrutOC.x/2 + StrutOffset.x,
	j*StrutOC.y/2 + StrutOffset.y,
	StrutBase[LENGTH] – BaseThick])
	rotate(180/StrutSides)
	sphere(d=StrutBase[OD]/cos(180/StrutSides),$fn=StrutSides);

	}
	}

	translate([-OverTravel,-GuideRadius,0])
	cube([(BatterySize.x + GuideRadius + OverTravel),
	(BatterySize.y + 2*GuideRadius),
	(BatterySize.z + LidClearance + Protrusion)]); // battery space

	translate([BatterySize.x/2,BatterySize.y/2,0]) // recess around battery name
	cube([0.8BatterySize.x,8,2ThreadThick],center=true);
	}

	Guides(); // improve friction fit

	translate([-OverTravel,-GuideRadius,0]) // battery keying blocks
	cube(KeyBlocks[0] + [OverTravel,GuideRadius,0],center=false);
	translate([-OverTravel,(BatterySize.y – KeyBlocks[1].y),0])
	cube(KeyBlocks[1] + [OverTravel,GuideRadius,0],center=false);

	translate([BatterySize.x/2,BatterySize.y/2,-ThreadThick]) // battery name!
	linear_extrude(height=2*ThreadThick,convexity=10)
	text(text=BatteryName,size=5,spacing=1.20,font="Arial:style:Bold",halign="center",valign="center");


	}

	translate([2*CaseOffset.x, // battery top access
	(CaseOffset.y – Protrusion),
	BatterySize.z + LidClearance])
	cube([2CaseSize.x,(CaseSize.y + 2Protrusion),2*TopThick]);

	for (i2 = RGBCircuit ? [-1,1] : -1) { // strut wire holes and fairing
	for (j=[-1,1])
	translate([i2StrutOC.x/2 + StrutOffset.x,jStrutOC.y/2 + StrutOffset.y,0])
	rotate(180/StrutSides)
	PolyCyl(StrutBase[ID],2*StrutBase[LENGTH],StrutSides);

	for (i=[-1,1], j=[-1,1])
	translate([iStrutBase[OD] + (i2StrutOC.x/2 + StrutOffset.x),
	j*StrutOC.y/2 + StrutOffset.y,
	-(BaseThick + Protrusion)])
	rotate(180/StrutSides)
	PolyCyl(StrutBase[OD],StrutBase[LENGTH] + 2*Protrusion,StrutSides);
	}

	translate([(BatterySize.x – Protrusion), // remove thumb notch
	(CaseSize.y/2 + CaseOffset.y),
	(ThumbRadius)])
	rotate([90,0,0])
	rotate([0,90,0])
	cylinder(r=ThumbRadius,
	h=(WallThick + GuideRadius + 2*Protrusion),
	$fn=22);

	PinAssembly(); // pins and wiring

	translate([CaseOffset.x + PinRecess + Protrusion,(Contacts[1].y + Contacts[0].y)/2,Contacts[0].z])
	translate([-PinRecess,0,0])
	cube([2*PinRecess,
	(Contacts[1].y – Contacts[0].y + PinFlange[OD]/cos(180/6) + 2*HoleWindage),
	2*PinFlange[OD]],center=true); // pin insertion hole

	translate([CaseOffset.x/2 + BatterySize.x/2,BatterySize.y/2,-(BaseThick + Protrusion)])
	linear_extrude(height=2*ThreadThick + Protrusion,convexity=10)
	mirror([0,1,0])
	text(text="KE4ZNU",size=6,spacing=1.20,font="Arial:style:Bold",halign="center",valign="center");
	}

	}

	// Lid position offset to match case

	module Lid() {

	difference() {
	translate([-LidSize.x/2 + LidOffset.x + LidOverhang,LidSize.y/2 + LidOffset.y,0])
	difference() {
	hull()
	for (i=[-1,1], j=[-1,1], k=[-1,1])
	translate([i*(LidSize.x/2 – CornerRadius),
	j*(LidSize.y/2 – CornerRadius),
	k*(LidSize.z – CornerRadius)]) // double thickness for flat bottom
	sphere(r=CornerRadius,$fn=8);

	translate([0,0,-LidSize.z/2]) // remove bottom
	cube([(LidSize.x + 2Protrusion),(LidSize.y + 2Protrusion),LidSize.z],center=true);

	translate([LidSize.x/8,0,0])
	cube([LidSize.x/4,0.75LidSize.y,4ThreadThick],center=true); // epoxy recess
	}

	translate([0,0,-(Contacts[0].z + PinFlange[OD])]) // punch wire holes
	PinAssembly();
	}

	}

	// Spider for RGB LED + radome atop vertical struts

	module RGBSpider() {

	difference() {
	union() {
	for (i=[-1,1], j=[-1,1]) {
	translate([iStrutOC.x/2,jStrutOC.y/2,StrutBase[OD]/2])
	rotate(180/StrutSides) // doesn't quite match crosspieces; close enough
	sphere(d=StrutBase[OD]/cos(180/StrutSides),$fn=StrutSides);
	translate([iStrutOC.x/2,jStrutOC.y/2,0])
	rotate(180/StrutSides)
	cylinder(d=StrutBase[OD],h=StrutBase[OD]/2,$fn=StrutSides);
	}

	for (m=[-1,1]) // connecting bars
	rotate(m*StrutAngle)
	translate([0,0,StrutBase[OD]/4])
	cube([norm(StrutOC),StrutBase[OD],StrutBase[OD]/2],center=true);

	translate([0,0,0]) // pillar for RGB LED and ball
	cylinder(d=BallPillar[OD],h=BallPillar[LENGTH],$fn=BallSides);
	}

	for (i=[-1,1], j=[-1,1]) // strut wires
	translate([iStrutOC.x/2,jStrutOC.y/2,-Protrusion])
	rotate(0)
	PolyCyl(StrutBase[ID],StrutBase[OD]/2,6);

	for (m=[-1,1], n=[0,1]) // RGBA wires through bars
	rotate(mStrutAngle + n180)
	translate([StrutOC.x/3,0,-Protrusion])
	PolyCyl(StrutBase[ID],StrutBase[OD],6);

	# translate([0,0,BallOD/2 + BallPillar[LENGTH] – BallChordM]) // ball inset
	sphere(d=BallOD);

	translate([0,0,2*RGBBody.z + (BallPillar[LENGTH] – BallChordM) – RGBRecess]) // LED inset
	cube(RGBBody + [HoleWindage,HoleWindage,3*RGBBody.z],center=true); // XY clearance + huge height for E-Z cut

	for (m=[-1,1]) // RGBA wires through pillar
	rotate(m*StrutAngle)
	translate([0,0,StrutBase[OD]/2 + WireOD/2 + 0*Protrusion])
	cube([norm(StrutOC)/2,WireOD,WireOD],center=true);

	}
	}

	//——————-
	// Build it!

	if (Layout == "Case")
	Case();

	if (Layout == "Lid")
	Lid();

	if (Layout == "RGBSpider") {
	RGBSpider();
	}

	if (Layout == "Pins") {
	color("Silver",0.5)
	PinShape();
	PinAssembly();
	}

	if (Layout == "Show") { // reveal pin assembly
	difference() {
	Case();

	translate([(CaseOffset.x – Protrusion),
	Contacts[1].y,
	Contacts[1].z])
	cube([(-CaseOffset.x + Protrusion),CaseSize.y,CaseSize.z]);

	translate([(CaseOffset.x – Protrusion),
	(CaseOffset.y – Protrusion),
	0])
	cube([(-CaseOffset.x + Protrusion),
	Contacts[0].y + Protrusion – CaseOffset.y,
	CaseSize.z]);
	}

	translate([0,0,BatterySize.z + Gap])
	Lid();

	color("Silver",0.15)
	PinAssembly();

	if (RGBCircuit)
	translate([StrutOC.x/2,BatterySize.y/2,2*BatterySize.z])
	difference() {
	RGBSpider();
	rotate(180-StrutAngle)
	translate([0,0,-Protrusion])
	cube([norm(StrutOC),StrutBase[OD],2*BallPillar.z],center=false);
	}

	}

	if (Layout == "Build") {
	translate([-BatterySize.x/2,-BatterySize.y/2,BaseThick])
	Case();
	translate([-CaseSize.x + LidSize.x,-(LidSize.y/2 + LidOffset.y),0])
	Lid();
	if (RGBCircuit)
	translate([StrutOC.x + BatterySize.x/2,0,0])
	RGBSpider();
	}

	if (Layout == "Fit") {
	Case();
	translate([0,0,(BatterySize.z + Gap)])
	Lid();
	color("Silver",0.25)
	PinAssembly();
	if (RGBCircuit)
	translate([StrutOC.x/2,BatterySize.y/2,2*BatterySize.z])
	RGBSpider();
	}

view raw Astable Multivibrator Battery Holder.scad hosted with ❤ by GitHub

The original doodles give useful dimensions, plus some details not withstanding the test of time:

RGB LED Radome Spider - doodles — RGB LED Radome Spider – doodles

The actual center-to-center distances for the wire posts come from the battery dimensions, rounded up or down as appropriate, to the nearest multiple of 5 mm, so those are just serving suggestions.

2018-12-28

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