IC DIP lead straightener

The tinker and breadboard friendly dual inline package (DIP) has one slightly annoying feature to it. The factory bend leads don't face straight down, but at an angle that makes inserting them a hassle and usually requires straightening them first. The usual technique is to simply press them on a flat surface, like a table and apply equal pressure. But that is not ideal and can easily bend some of them out of shape requiring corrections.

For that reason there exists specialized tools. But since we all love 3D printing, why not make our own instead of buying one? It has the advantage also, that is requires no screws or metal springs, making it as simple and cheap as possible.

Features:

• Versatile: Accepts anything from 4-28pin components in 0.3" wide dual inline package
• 100% printed: Single piece, print in place - no supports, no additional components
• Perfect bends: slight inward slope on tool jaws compensate for lead elasticity
• Free hands use: Movable parts allow only one axis of motion, so operations doesn't require a flat surface like some other tools do

Use: Insert IC into the tool from the top (inset part with text printed in it), leads facing down. Press together movable yaws to align leads. Release pressure and remove part. Done!

Best print in a ever so slightly flexible material like PETG so the spring elements operate more easily. Though I have tested PLA and it works too. Use some infill to stiffen up other areas, everything ≥ 15% should be fine. Design is optimized for 0.4mm nozzle width (spring elements are two extrusions thick).