Project Overview

TL;DR

  • See pictures ;)
  • Files below

Introduction

I sometimes work on projects where I need to assemble multiple PCBs or iterate on a project using almost the same components for each prototype. I prefer doing these assemblies manually, as, in my opinion, it speeds up the process when dealing with prototypes. A recurring problem for me is handling components stored in small zipper bags within boxes of components in small zipper bags. I often feel like I spend more time searching for parts than placing and soldering them. This becomes especially problematic when the assembly process is fragmented. If I assemble three PCBs one weekend and another three the next, I end up wasting a lot of time just getting everything ready.

For a recent project, I wanted to approach things differently. The components needed to be stored with the project in a way that allows me to start assembling as soon as I pull them out of the drawer. I found a convenient way to store passives on 8mm tape. Several people had published some excellent 3D printable designs for this exact purpose, so I tried out the most promising one. Overall, it worked well, but I wanted a few modifications. Besides the passives, I needed storage for lower-count parts, like ICs, inductors, etc. I envisioned a sort of tray that would allow me to insert component tapes, securing them in a way that prevents them from falling off but still lets me pull them out easily during assembly. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find anything pre-made that fit these needs, especially not a storage solution optimized for the specific components I use for my project. So, I decided to design it myself.

Parametric SMD storage tray

SMD Containers

The goals for this design were to provide a space saving method to store component tapes of different sizes that also lets you directly use the components for assembly. I came up with a design which, at least for me, solves the problem.

It

  • … is fully parametric
  • … is fully 3D printable (no additional parts required)
  • … supports labeling (flat surface)
  • … supports waterproof markers
  • … has an integrated spring mechanism to securely hold the tapes
  • … has a cover tape slot
  • … makes a satisfying click when correctly assembled

To modify the design to suit your needs, you will need to use OpenSCAD (https://www.openscad.org). If you’re not familiar with it, don’t worry. The only thing you need to do is provide table-like data. You’ll need to describe the dimensions of the tape using seven values, along with an additional parameter to define the tolerance.

tape([ 12.0, 2.7, 0.5, 1.0, 3.0, 1.0, 3.0], 0.2),
tape([  8.0, 1.3, 0.3, 1.0, 3.5, 1.0, 3.5], 0.2),
tape([    w,   h,  ht, wsl, wsr, wtl, wtr], tolerance),

Each line represents one rail on the tray. All values are in mm. The diagram should make things a bit clearer:

Tape Dimensions

In addition to the custom dimensions, I’ve also included some generic presets that should fit most 8mm, 12mm, and 16mm tapes. I’ve provided two examples in the SCAD file to help you get started. After editing the dimensions, you will need to compile the model (F6) and export the STL (F7).

For those who don’t want to modify the design, I’ve generated trays with 8x8mm, 8x12mm, and 8x16mm slots, each with a length of 150mm, using the generic presets. If you want to test if your tapes fit the presets, there is also a pre-generated tester model.

Hope you like it!

Build

  • Use a flat bed for printing
  • .2mm layers
  • .4 nozzle
  • I had really good results with PLA+

Assembly

Just slide the two halfs together until you hear a click.

SMD component containers on a rail

SMD Containers

The original model was designed by @LordAsdi_1250566 and published on Printables.com (https://www.printables.com/model/580643-smd-component-tape-magazine-8-12-16mm). He mentioned that he was inspired by Robin Reiter, who had also published a 3D printable design earlier (https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3952021), which, in turn, was inspired by Maxint, who may have had the idea in the first place (https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2186862). In any case, I made some improvements to the chosen design from my perspective:

  • Container
    • Flat labels (better adhesion)
    • Snap-in labels (removable)
    • Parametric version (you can generate any width you like)
    • Screws instead of clips
  • Rail
    • Support for weights (optional)
    • 3D printed spring instead of foam
    • Parametric version (you can generate any width you like)

Build

Required parts

  • M2.5 x 6mm countersunk screws
    • Metric screws are not ideal for this purpose, but they are working really well here. If you have suitable self-tapping screws, use those.
  • Cheap 8mm and 10mm round stock
    • Mild steel, nothing fancy
    • Cut to the length of your rail
  • Spring (Wire 0.3mm, OD: 4mm, Length=20mm)
    • Maybe 0.4mm wire would be better but I could not test it yet

Print settings

  • Use a flat bed for printing
  • .2mm layers
  • .4 nozzle
  • I used PETG (PLA+ might be fine as well)

Container assembly

Rail assembly

Project files

DOWNLOAD: SMD Tray files

DOWNLOAD: SMD Containers files