Cable Tidy Spool, for ⌀3.0mm Cables, 128 Sizes

I have designed these easy-to-use cable tidy spools to store a variety of cables in a neat and compact manner. My previous method of using rubber bands and cable clips was still problematic due to the cables tangling and the difficulty in distinguishing between similar-looking ones.

In my search for a solution, I discovered many great ideas (refer to the Inspiration section), but none encompassed all the features I was looking for in a single design. As a result, I came up with an entirely new cable spool design.

My objectives were to design a spool that could be quickly printed, require only a minimal quantity of filament, and provide a secure and neat storage solution for various USB and other types of cables.

Cable Diameters

This page exclusively includes models for a cable diameter of 3mm. Due to the vast number of models, I have created separate pages for each cable diameter. Click on the following links to directly access the project page for the specified cable diameter.

• 3.0mm Diameter C30
• 3.5mm Diameter C35
• 4.0-5.0mm Diameter C40-C50

Printing the Spools

The file section includes a PrusaSlicer project named LR2346-H020-W030-L100-C30-R2 Print.3mf, which comes with all suggested settings. This file can be used directly, or you can consult the table below for specific parameters:

Low Bed Adhesion Warning

A model designed with minimal material use and optimized for quick printing comes with certain drawbacks. Since the spool is printed on its edges, it could lead to printer bed adhesion issues. Additionally, materials like PETG might be prone to warping. In such instances, consider adding a brim in the slicer settings to increase the surface area on the printer bed.

Dimensions

The above diagram provides a detailed illustration of the spool's various dimensions. These dimensions are specified in each model's filename. You can also find the dimensions in the PDF catalog, alongside handy tables to help you identify the correct model for your cable.

LR2346-H<height>-W<width>-L<length>-C<cable diameter>-R<rim height>.3mf

Width (W)

The spool's width is given in millimeters (mm) and refers to the outer width of the spool. To ascertain the inner width, subtract twice the rim height from this dimension.

The width also determines the radius at both ends of the spool.

Length (L)

The spool's length, also given in millimeters (mm), refers to the spool's outer length. Like the width, the inner length can be calculated by subtracting twice the rim height.

Cable Diameter (C)

The cable diameter is specified in tenths of a millimeter. Therefore, the value 30 corresponds to 3.0mm, and a value 45 equates to 4.5mm.

Given most cables are flexible, you can consider this value as an approximation. It's feasible to use a cable with a diameter of 3.2mm or even 3.5mm with a spool designed for 3.0mm cables. However, the slot's locking mechanism works optimally with the cable diameter it's intended for.

Rim Height (R)

The rim height, measured in millimeters (mm), refers to the height of the rim surrounding the spool. A higher rim securely holds the cable on the spool but reduces the spool's usable area due to the angle.

Cable Length

The PDF catalog also includes an estimated cable length for each spool. This length refers to a single layer of cable wound around the spool, as depicted in the photos on this project page.

Inspiration

My design was inspired by the following projects:

• Cable Spool by Kimframes
• Cable Spool by Crono
• Universal cable spool storage system by Masibu

Usage

Always start winding the cable onto the spool from the slot near the radius. The winding cable's pushing force securely holds the connector within this slot. Wrap the cable around the spool and place the end in another slot just after the last winding for optimal security. Position the connectors in the middle of the spool.

Please be gentle when inserting the cables into the slots to prevent any damage.

More 3D Models

Check out my other designs that you might find helpful:

>>> View all my 3D models <<<

File Order

As it is at the time of this writing impossible to sort the files on the project page. So, I found the following two strategies best to find the desired model.

• Simply download all files. Use the catalogue PDF to find the filename of the model and use your operating systems search function to sort the files or find the file with its name.
• Use the search function in your browser to jump to the link of the file on the download page.

Conclusion

I hope this design helps you neatly organize your collection of USB cables. If you find this design useful, please rate it and share photos of your prints.

Happy printing!