Monitor Stand Adapter

For this project I set out to solve an issue I had with my monitor stand. I was given a monitor that was built to be mounted horizontally, however in order to fit into the the space I had available on my desk, I would have to do something about that. Using my knowledge of surface modeling, 3D printing, and strength testing I was able to design and manufacture this clever solution.

Lessons Learned & Skills Improved

This project was one of my favorites so far, but it challenged me in a few different ways.

Working with existing infrastructure:

When I first started this project I took as many of the components apart as I could, and I found that the existing monitor stand had an internal casted metal frame. I knew that I would like to reuse the component as it'll significantly improve the durability of the stand. After the disassembly I also was left with different nuts and bolts, which I knew I wanted to reuse in the final piece.

Designing Complex Geometries:

After deciding to reuse the stand frame, I had to create a design that worked with the disassembled stand. This was difficult as I would have to create a assembly process that allowed for everything to "stack" in a way where I could mount the adapter and secure it while it was in between the minor and the stand. This was difficult however the design I came up with worked around it by having a unique form with a cavity in the middle of the piece.

Cost Estimate

Raw Material Cost:

Steel Rod:

$4.59

(3/16" x 36" SteelWorks Unthreaded Rod

PLA:

Full Spool Cost:

$23.99

SUNLU Filament

Cost for Individual Piece:

$2.33

Total Material Cost Per Unit:

$6.92

Improvements to be Made

There are several improvement that would be possible

Adding a swivel mount. It would require significantly more problem solving, as it would further extend the monitor from the stand (making it front heavy, which could lead to tipping), however I believe in engineering designing a product that has multiple utilities should always be something we strive for.
Using a stronger filament. I had PLA on hand, and so this is what I used, however a material such as PETG or even Polycarbonate would increases the overall strength of the stand and further decrease the vertical stresses of gravity and weight.
Further improving strength. If I had access to a 3 axis/5 axis mill, this product could easily be manufactures from a stronger material such as steel. The piece could even be casted like the frame itself to further improve stress resiliency.