Request to add Sphere Gripper to Libraries

[grahamfranz]

I am requesting to add my library to https://openscad.org/libraries.html.

Its purpose is to create a spherical grip tool that can be connected to a loading pin

Repo: https://github.com/grahamfranz/Sphere-Gripper
License: MIT

[jordanbrown0]

This looks like an interesting project, but it isn't a library per se - it is not a set of functions or modules to be called by another OpenSCAD program. Rather, it is a standalone customizable OpenSCAD program.

Perhaps we need a separate grouping for customizable programs, or perhaps the Gallery is a good place.

Just so I understand: you attach this to a fixed anchor of some kind, and you grab it as a handhold when rock climbing?

[grahamfranz]

You attach it to a fixed anchor or loading pin and you use it to train your grip muscles. I attach it to a carabiner and bucket with weights in it at home. I understand if it doesn't meet the criteria. Someone suggested it as an issue on my page. If it could be added to the gallery that would be great, otherwise we can close it.

[jordanbrown0]

So it carries some load, but does not carry your body weight? I would be very hesitant to even sort of promote using a 3D printed part in a life-critical application. If it's not carrying the user's body weight, never mind.

As for where... @t-paul, any thoughts?

[grahamfranz]

I understood that, its intended to load up weights but not the users bodyweight. I thought that might be a problem so I added the disclaimer.

"heads up: these are 3D printed parts. start light and work up gradually — don't load to full bodyweight until you've tested your print. inspect the ring and junction before each use. layer adhesion is the weak point, not the design, so a poor print can fail even if the geometry is correct. PETG or ASA strongly recommended over PLA."

I have not tested it this way but I would suspect it would be useful for some people as a kind of pull-up attachment so I left that open as a possibility. I can specifically disclaim against that use though.

[jordanbrown0]

I would disclaim against it. Remember that shock loads can be far higher than static loads, and that there may be accumulated damage that isn't visible.

[grahamfranz]

okay I made that more strong disclaimer "Not a climbing hold — don't hang your bodyweight on it. This isn't safety equipment and has no rated load. Don't use it as a climbing hold, hangboard/campus grip, gym ring, swing, or anchor point, and don't use it overhead or anywhere a sudden failure would drop you or drop something onto someone."