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Nintendo Switch - Ergonomic Grip (Original + OLED)

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Creation quality: 4.8/5 (6 votes)
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Designer

3D model description

Update 28/07/22:
I've added a modified version that fits the Switch OLED. Since the OLED doesn't have the screw holes my original design relies on, the updated version is instead held in place by the screw hole on the joycon itself. A drawback with this solution is that it is no longer as easy to remove the joycons once slid into place and you now have to remove the grip before you can remove the joycon. Be aware that this does put more stress on the grip itself when removing it. With this in mind I'd caution against removing and attaching the grips too frequently and it may be a good idea to print them in a less brittle material like PETG.

Update 17/07/19:
I’ve been meaning to print and paint myself a new pair of grips for some time now, and based on my own impressions using the originals, plus some new insights, I also wanted to improve on a couple of things with the design itself.

The most notable change is the expanded brace which now covers more of the back of the console, further improving on the less than secure connection between the Switch and the Joycons. Consequently, the kickstand can no longer be unfolded to access the sd-card without first removing the grip. Personally, I don’t see this as an issue but be aware nonetheless.

Also noteworthy, compared to the original the grips now print at an angle which might seem a bit odd but I’ve found that this makes a big difference printing the otherwise horizontal overhang, especially if you’re using Curas ‘Support Interface’ feature which I highly recommend (you can read about it here: https://ultimaker.com/en/resources/52663-support ).

The only other changes made are some slight tweaks and refinements contributing to a better fit and a somewhat more refined model directly of the build plate.

One last thing that I’ve added besides the models for the grips is a test piece for tuning the support settings, saving both time and material.

Update 22/06/18:
Upon request, I've included a slightly larger version of the grip.

Original text:
My latest and greatest creation. Not much to say, I wanted a grip for my switch and since most of the ones available are somewhat lacklustre I decided to design my own. Credit where credit is due, I was influenced by Toshi_TNEs design
https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/game/nintendo-switch-portable-mode-grips although I’d say that mine is a fair bit more comprehensive. Unlike theirs, my design snaps onto the main body of the switch before the joycons are attached, giving a nice firm fit. The grips themselves are also quite substantial, although they are not as large as something like an xbox controller.

The grip come in two versions; v1.1 is the one in the pictures and has an extra bit sticking out to better support the switch if held one-handed. both work just fine but personally I wanted some extra support.

To those worried about scuffing their joycons, it should go without saying that this design is intended to be sanded and preferably painted. If you’re not painting, then consider applying some thin masking tape along the side and bottom where the joycon will be rubbing against when it is slid in place. If you are painting it then keep in mind that the thicker the pain, the less wiggle room the joycons will have. I went a bit overboard on the ones in the picture, hence the scuff marks.


3D printing settings

Printer: Ultimaker Original+ & Ultimaker 2+ & Ender 5

Material advise:

The OLED version may benefit from being printed in a less brittle material like PETG as it requires a bit more flex than the ones for the original when removing them from the console

General settings:

Layer thickness: 0.1mm
Wall-thickness: 1.6mm (4 lines with a .4mm nozzle)
Infill: 5% - 10%
Build Plate Adhesion: Brim (Line count 15)
Top/Bottom thickness: 8 - 12 layers
Top/Bottom Pattern: Concentric

Supports: This is likely going to depend on the printer, but bellow are my settings for the UM2+ where other than default
Support Density: 10%
Enable Support Interface: True
Support Z Distance: 0.1mm or 0.2mm (This is the most critical setting when printing with support interface and I strongly recommend experimenting with the included test model to get this right)

3D printer file information

  • Design number: 27220
  • 3D design format: STL Folder details Close
    • Support_Test.stl
    • Switch_Grip_v2_L.stl
    • Switch_Grip_v2_OLED_L.stl
    • Switch_Grip_v2_OLED_R.stl
    • Switch_Grip_v2_R.stl

    Learn more about the formats

  • Last update: 2022-07-28 at 11:36
  • Publication date: 2018-06-17 at 11:40

License

CULTS - Private Use

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