Print Files
This model, along with it’s design file, can be downloaded for free from Printables or Thangs.
Narrative
After noticing that my golf bag only had one of the rubber feet attached, I took to the internet to try and find a replacement. I tend to look for an existing model before coming up with something myself, so I went to printables to look for one. I did find (and subsequently printed) a model; a nice simple design by printables user Toeknee_2531345.
While the print came out just fine and probably would’ve gotten the job done, it was a different design than what originally came with the bag:
That alone normally wouldn’t make me take on the task of designing something new, however, I ended up getting some extra inspiration. My son came to me one day and mentioned that he was bored. I figured was a great opportunity to introduce him to 3d designing and printing. I pulled out my calipers, showed my boy how they worked and asked him to take some measurements for me.
Together, we came up with something that more closely resembles the original foot!
I had half expected that my son would become bored with the process, but he actually stuck by my side and watched while I used FreeCAD to come up with the design!
Our first version, like all first drafts, ended up having a few issues; it was much bigger than the original foot, and it wasn’t at the proper angle to make the bag actually stand. So I took some measurements and did some math (using AI) to find the appropriate angle for making the bag stand properly. Version 3 of the model ended up being the one that I’m happy to call a completed project. It’s still larger than the original foot, but it gets the job done and looks pretty good if I do say so myself!
Takeaways
If you have kids, get them involved! I don’t know how I feel into the habit of unintentionally gatekeeping this hobby from my son, but I’m glad that he helped me out with this project and I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity to make this memory with him!
Additionally, it’s always good to work on your skills (especially if you can spare the time), lest they grow stale!
About the Print
I printed the feet in Ziro 95A TPU using my Ender 3 V3 KE. 95A TPU isn’t particularly soft or flexible, but it does seem to get the job done in this instance.