One of the most powerful features of the DIVEVOLK housing system is its incredible flexibility. But what if you have a phone that isn't one of the mainstream models we provide a standard adapter for? The answer lies in the exciting world of 3D printing. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to create a perfectly customized internal support block (adapter) for your DIVEVOLK housing and phone.
1. Why Are Custom Adapters Needed for Different Phones?
A. The Power of Modular Design
The DIVEVOLK housing utilizes a modular design. Instead of needing to buy a completely new housing every time you upgrade your phone, you can simply swap out the internal adapter block to fit your new device. This sustainable approach saves you money and reduces waste, allowing your housing to adapt and evolve with your technology.
B. Standard vs. Custom Adapters
Not every phone model requires a custom-printed adapter. For example, our SeaTouch 4 Max+ housing comes with a standard adapter block that is perfectly compatible with the entire Apple iPhone 12 through 16 series. However, the Android market is incredibly diverse, with countless brands and models, each with unique dimensions and shapes. For these users, a custom adapter ensures the housing fits the phone snugly, guaranteeing smooth and reliable operation for underwater photography.
The standard adapter block included with the SeaTouch 4 Max+ housing.
2. Can I Print My Own Adapter? (And Where Do I Get the Files?)
Yes! If you have access to a 3D printer, you can print your own adapter for any compatible phone model. This offers ultimate flexibility. We provide the necessary 3D printing files for free on our official website's Technical Supports page.
Download 3D Printer Files from the Technical Supports Page Here
3. Which 3D Printer and Materials Should I Choose?
The two most common types of consumer 3D printers are FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) and SLA (Stereolithography). Each has its pros and cons for creating an adapter block.
FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) Printers
How it works: An FDM printer works by heating a plastic filament (like PLA or ABS) until it melts, then extruding it through a nozzle layer by layer to build the object. Each layer cools and solidifies, gradually forming the final 3D part. FDM printers support a wide variety of materials like PLA, ABS, and PETG, each with different mechanical and thermal properties.
SLA (Stereolithography) Printers
How it works: An SLA printer uses photosensitive resin as its material. A UV light source selectively cures the resin layer by layer to construct the object. Each layer of resin solidifies under the light, gradually forming the final 3D part. This method is known for its high precision and smooth surface finish.
4. Quick Fix: How to Correct a Warped Print
If your 3D printed adapter block comes out slightly warped or bent, there's often a simple fix. Place the adapter block on a flat surface, use a heavy weight to press it flat on its back, and then gently apply heat to the deformed area with a hairdryer. The heat will soften the plastic just enough for the weight to correct the warp as it cools.
Summary: Your Guide to Choosing the Right 3D Printing Setup
To create the perfect custom adapter, you'll need to choose the right printer and material. Here’s a summary to help you decide:
1. Choosing the Right 3D Printer
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FDM Printers:
- Pros: Lower cost, easy to operate, great for beginners and home use.
- Best For: Users on a budget where ultra-high precision is not the primary concern.
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SLA Printers:
- Pros: Very high printing accuracy and smooth surface finish, perfect for the fine details and complex shapes of an adapter block.
- Best For: Users who require the highest precision and detail for a perfect fit.
2. Choosing the Right Material
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For FDM Printers:
- PLA: Eco-friendly and easy to print, but has lower strength and heat resistance. Good for simple, low-stress adapters.
- ABS: Good toughness and elasticity, making it less brittle. A strong choice for durable adapters.
- PETG (Recommended for FDM): The best of both worlds. It combines the ease of printing of PLA with the strength and chemical resistance of ABS, making it an excellent and reliable choice for a durable adapter block.
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For SLA Printers:
- Photosensitive Resin: The only material for SLA printers. It offers high precision and a smooth surface. Standard resins work for most needs, while high-strength or engineering resins are better for applications requiring maximum mechanical performance.
3. Other Considerations
- Budget: FDM printers and their materials are generally lower in cost. SLA printers and resins are more expensive but offer higher precision.
- Post-Processing: FDM prints may require some light sanding or removal of support structures. SLA prints typically need to be washed and then cured with UV light.
Our Recommendations
- For Budget-Conscious Users: Choose an FDM printer with PETG material. This combination offers reliable performance at a low cost.
- For High-Precision Needs: Choose an SLA printer with high-strength resin. This will ensure the best possible accuracy, fit, and durability for your adapter block.
We hope this information helps you choose the right 3D printer and material to customize your DIVEVOLK housing's adapter block!
