Initially, we planned to 3D print the base as a single piece, but we quickly realised it was too large for that approach. Our first alternative, a lock and key mechanism, where we will include an extruded part on one half of the base, and an indent on the other half to connect them together. However, this design proved too brittle and bulky, leaving insufficient space for essential components like the holes for the beaker and pipette tips.

We continued experimenting and eventually developed a successful method that we’re excited to share below. 

As shown in the diagram, this is the successful lock and key mechanism that we have come out with. We decided to split the main base structure into 4 separate components for 3d printing due to space constraint on the printing machine. 

4 components to be assembled for the main base structure

Subsequently, we connected the 4 components of the base and here we have our finalised main base!

Main base structure

Generally, the dimensions of the main base was well-planned and there were no further changes made.