3D Printing Guide for SigLab Components

This guide provides detailed instructions for 3D printing the components of the wooden version of SigLab. All STL files are available in the _assets/stl-files directory.

Printer Requirements

• FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printer

• Recommended build volume: 200x200x200mm or larger

• Recommended materials: PLA or PETG

• Layer height: 0.2mm for most parts, 0.1mm for detailed parts

Component List

Track Components

• drill_template_straight.stl - Template for straight track sections

• drill_template_curve.stl - Template for curved track sections

• drill_template_switch.stl - Template for switch sections

Signal Components

• signal_body-main.stl - Main signal body

• signal_body-distant.stl - Distant signal body

• color_block-main.stl - Main signal color block

• color_block-distant.stl - Distant signal color block

• routeSignal.stl - Route signal component

• route_clearing_point.stl - Route clearing point indicator

Train Components

• train_headlight_coupler.stl - Train front coupler with headlight

• train_tail_coupler.stl - Train rear coupler

• train_headlight_symbol.stl - Headlight symbol

• train_tail_symbol.stl - Tail symbol

Switch Components

• switch_blade.stl - Switch blade mechanism

• locking_pin.stl - Switch locking mechanism

Additional Components

• magnet_rod_round.stl - Round magnet rod

• magnet_rod_oval.stl - Oval magnet rod

• number_plate_$fn25.stl - Number plate base

• number_plate_numbers_$fn25.stl - Number plate digits

Printing Instructions

General Settings

• Infill: 20-30%

• Wall thickness: 2-3 perimeters

• Support: Where necessary (especially for overhangs)

• Bed adhesion: Brim or raft recommended

Specific Component Settings

Signal Bodies

• Layer height: 0.2mm

• Support: Yes

• Orientation: Upright

• Infill: 25%

Track Templates

• Layer height: 0.2mm

• Support: No

• Orientation: Flat

• Infill: 30%

Train Components

• Layer height: 0.1mm for detailed parts

• Support: Yes for couplers

• Orientation: As per STL file

• Infill: 30%

Post-Processing

1. Remove support material carefully

2. Sand smooth any rough edges

3. Clean up any stringing

4. Test fit components before assembly

Quality Control

Before proceeding to assembly, ensure:

• All components fit together properly

• Moving parts move freely

• No warping or significant defects

• Proper layer adhesion

Next Steps

After printing all components:

1. Proceed to the Assembly Guide

2. Review the Materials List

3. Begin the construction process

Troubleshooting

Common issues and solutions:

• Warping: Use proper bed adhesion and temperature settings

• Layer separation: Check filament quality and temperature

• Poor detail: Reduce layer height and print speed

• Support removal: Use proper support settings and tools