Parametric container for ball bearings, "Vase Mode"

When I use ball bearings I always at least use two of them at the same time, usually even four at once.  Therefore, I want to store them in similar quantities.

Parameters

This model allows you to specify the size of the bearings and the amount to pack in one container. In theory the design fits all you bearing needs. However, when your bearings get larger than what a "Vase Mode" print can contain, you better start looking for a wooden box.

Also, no one forces you to use these containers for bearings. They fit anything roughly cylindrical! Just dial in the parameters.

I advice against storing button cells (batteries) that way.

STL Files

I added STL examples for standard 608 ball bearings. 608 is 8mm internal diameter, 22mm outer diameter and 7mm width (8x22x7mm).

The lid fits all containers. The containers only differ in the number of bearings they can hold.

Vase Mode

"Vase Mode" means that the model is solid, but the slicer only prints the outer most layers, usually in a pseudo spiral motion.

In Cura the "Vase Mode" is called Spiral Outer Contour and it is one of the options under Special Modes. To see them, you have to switch from Recommended print settings to Show custom and scroll down. When you check Spiral Outer Contour, Smooth Spiralized Countours is selected automatically, too.

This will print the bottom and the walls but leave the model open at the top. Print a container and a lid with the same parameters and they should fit.

Other slicers most likely have a similar mode or function. Search your manual for it.