02-05-2018, 05:15 PM | #67 |
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Ok guys. I just got my TPU pieces in the mail, and just installed them in my F32. I got TPU, as it's flexible and needs to curve with the door trim of the F32.
While they are an improvement, it's still not as bright as I'd like, and I think I owe that to just how non-bright the LEDs are. Cost was $43. PM me if you'd like info on who printed them for me and I'll refer you. P.S. the night time pic makes them look brighter than they actually are.
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02-06-2018, 03:00 PM | #68 |
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Thanks to awmenard for the files, I was able to get started on this as well. Like many on here, I also went through 3Dhubs.com. I ended up working with Brandon from HartSmart. Great guy and very informative if you are still looking for a 3D printer.
My order hasn't arrived yet, so I'll update with more info when it comes. But, there are a few interesting things I picked up. I'm far from an expert, mostly just reciting things that I was told. But, just in case it's helpful: First, in terms of material, I decided to try clear TPU for its flexibility (and since that seemed to be the material most of the earlier posts mentioned). However, Brandon mentioned to me a couple other alternatives - PETG or nGen. They are more rigid, but can still have a little bit of flex. I didn't look into these other materials so I can't compare. Also, when I asked for "clear" TPU, I was told that it is never really clear. The clarity depends on how many "layers" you print. The more layers (more opaque), the greater the ability to "diffuse" light and refract it since it has to pass through more layers. The less layers (more clear), the better for light to pass directly through it, but you won't see it as much from the side. Number of layers is related to the layer "height." The taller the height, the less layers you can fit into your print. I originally selected 500 microns, but was told that was an overly thick layer and the printer would not be able to print the thin "fins" at the top with that setting. So, I lowered it to 300 microns. Not sure it that will achieve the desired effect, but I'll have to wait and see when it arrives. My guess is with the varying combinations of layer height / # of layers / clarity, one can foreseeably play around with some settings and get an ideal amount of light passing through vs. diffused light.
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02-06-2018, 03:10 PM | #69 |
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chuckles01 Great info.
It's interesting to see how many are using different techniques, I think the more these are the the better chance we have a finding the perfect combination. I will change mine soon however I'm just waiting on others results. I find that this is a relatively cheap upgrade that adds a little something special. I'm sure if we could slide I little mirror or reflective piece in the bottom of the trim we could get a lot more light. |
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02-06-2018, 07:09 PM | #70 | |
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Your earlier version (with 3 per door) seems to diffuse the light nicely. Do you remember what thickness you used?
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02-07-2018, 05:25 PM | #72 |
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02-08-2018, 11:02 PM | #74 |
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I would be willing to pay someone for this for my F30... im In california..
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02-09-2018, 09:50 AM | #76 |
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Yep. Sure did. It was actually harder to install them in the rear as it was a much tighter fit, even for something so thin. Had to leverage my trim tools to push it in.
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02-09-2018, 10:36 AM | #77 | |
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02-10-2018, 10:18 AM | #79 |
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I submitted the file through 3dhubs but the only person who can do it in the US said he can't print anything more than 15 inch in length.
Does anyone have any recommendations for a printing service that can print it in 20 inch? |
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02-10-2018, 11:30 AM | #80 | |
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https://www.3dhubs.com/service/50057
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02-12-2018, 04:42 PM | #81 | |
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02-12-2018, 07:31 PM | #82 | ||
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02-16-2018, 09:04 PM | #83 |
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Got the strips and installed them this past week. Overall I'm satisfied with the effect, especially for the price. The lighting is not as even as I thought, but I think that's more an outcome of the 3D printing layer thickness I chose and the clarity of the TPU. You can see little "dots" of light, as if it's a bunch of little bulbs. Not quite the single light tube effect as on the new 5 series. It doesn't bother me, but perhaps more opacity will achieve that desired effect?
Here are some pictures:
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05-29-2018, 07:50 AM | #85 |
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I order those strips from my local 3D printing store wand they said that they couldn’t print them in 20inch long but only 10 inch but they were nive enough to gloue them down for me for a total of 28$. Now my questions is how do you guys insert those strips in the door panel? I saw the video on YouTube and seems like he is putting them in form the front of the door panel!do they stick enough not fall ?
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05-29-2018, 12:26 PM | #86 | |
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Mine have been on for a few months and have not moved an inch. Once you have them you'll see how it fits. Post Pics with your results. |
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06-01-2018, 09:10 PM | #88 |
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Just received my two pieces of clear tpu for the front seats installed them was apiece of cake !
That’s the results couldn’t be happier with the result really add a nice touch of a premium ! Now I’m gonna order the two pieces for the back seats! |
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