Venetian window blind rod

This is a modular, parameterized, snap-fit rod system for a Venetian window blind rod. 

Modular snap-fit

These are the parts that you can use to make your window blind rod:

• Hook end: The top of this part connects to the hook on your blinds. The bottom of this part can connect to a rod or rod end.
• Rod: Both ends of this part can snap into a hook end or a connecter. 
• Connector: Both ends of this part can connect to a rod or a rod end.
• Rod end: The top of this part can snap into a connecter or a hook end. The bottom is a filleted point.

Thus the minimum is a hook end and a rod end, but in most cases, you will need additional rod lengths and connectors to make the length you need.

You can select from various lengths of rods & rod ends in the files to make the total length or use the f3d file in Fusion 360 to make custom pieces with the parameters. 

For precise calculation of the overall length, keep in mind the following:

• The hook-end length is 30 mm end-to-end. The center of the hole is offset from the end by 2 mm.
• Each connector is 30 mm long but only adds 7 mm to the overall length.

The snap-fits are very tight, so use plenty of force. If you find they are too tight, you can adjust the tolerances and rib depth in the parameters in Fusion 360.

Why does this exist?

You can indeed buy replacement window blind rods for about $2. But I figure:

• What if you are in a remote location, and getting a replacement shipped is more expensive? 
• What if you need a non-standard size? 
• What if you want to have a color that isn't easily purchased? 
• What if you want a multi-color rod? 

Anyway, these are the rationales I told my spouse, who looked askance at me toiling away on this model.