Amscope knobs for arthritic hands? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Hoggy
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2019, 04:32:18 am
content: Hi,I've gotten an Amscope microscope [simul-focal trinocular one], but I find that I need to really crank down the bottom collar that sits under the boom to stop it from slipping down. I don't actually have arthritis, but am officially disabled from Fibromyalgia -- it's just often easier to explain 'arthritic hands' to people, which in effect describes my problem.I asked if Amscope sells bigger knobs for more torque, but they said they didn't. And I haven't found the correct Google-fu search terms yet.So does anyone know if it's possible to get bigger knobs for the Amscope?Thanks.

author: bob91343
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2019, 05:13:00 am
content: How about making up a clamp with a longer arm, so that would allow greater torque. You could modify the current knob and attach a contraption to exert greater force.I'd have to see it to make a more definitive suggestion. Even drilling a hole in the current knob and adding a rod for leverage might help.

author: Someone
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2019, 06:54:22 am
content: Find out the thread and start somewhere like here:https://www.mcmaster.com/clamping-levers

author: Hoggy
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2019, 09:26:16 am
content: I'm not sure how to find the thread size. I'm just getting into electronics, and am not the most handy person normally (but am slowly learning how to do both).It's the SM-4TPZ, "3.5X-90X Simul-Focal Stereo Zoom Microscope on Dual Arm Boom Stand".Located here:https://www.amscope.com/3-5x-90x-simul-focal-stereo-zoom-microscope-on-dual-arm-boom-stand.htmlI fear this is headed towards me finally breaking down and just getting a cheap digital calipers and trying the battery mod to use AAA Eneloop cells. It would be my first REAL electronics project I might add, outside of a second-time rechargeable battery replacement in an old Norelco shaver that I managed to fumble my way through successfully a few days ago (1st change was done by Batteries Plus around 2007 - yes, it's aREALLYold shaver- so those Ni-cads sure lasted!)..... Which is honest-to-goodness theONLYreason I haven't gotten one yet - I refuse to be hooked into the expensive PITA coin-cell habit. But NOW, I've just received a variety of AA/AAA battery cases.

author: jfiresto
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2019, 12:30:36 pm
content: I bet you will have no long term joy with what appears to be an overgrown clamp screw. Does the screw tip press directly on the shaft? If it does, I would replace it with a stronger and more benign, shaft collar with a quick release handle, something like one ofthese. (Explore each of the categories: there are various types.)[EDIT: meant to write "on the shaft", not "on the shelf".]

author: xmetal
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2019, 04:15:29 pm
content: I have the Amscope SM-4NTP version which is similar. I use it with a 0.7 Barlow lens. I do get problems with my right hand seizing up at times but I've not had problems using the microscope yet. I suppose you could wrap the knobs in self-amalgamating tape which is one way of making the OD of the knob a little bigger.

author: KL27x
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 27, 2019, 09:52:51 pm
content: QuoteIf you have a stereomicroscope, calipers will usually get the job done. Which is good, cuz I put my tiny thread gauges somewhere safe so I wouldn't lose them. I know they're safe, I just don't know where they are.I could be wrong, but I'd say you want an M8 1.25. Sanity check, OD of threads would be a tad under 8mm, and you would measure about 1.25mm between each thread.

author: mr.fabe
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 27, 2019, 10:06:13 pm
content: 3D printed knob that would slide over existing knob would be my choice

author: Hoggy
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 27, 2019, 11:32:43 pm
content: Sorry, I also have pneumonia right now, so a lot of this is just flying right over my head. The 3D printed solution sounds interesting, if I had a 3D printer - and the knowledge of how to make such a knob.Drilling the edges of the knob to put something there for leverage sounded promising (like a tiny screw, for instance), but I found the knob is hollow so I don't think anything would work for that.I was hoping they would be pretty standardized across many Amscope models.But I think I might end up emailing Amscope so I can at least find out what screw type would be used, and then look for a solution that might fit that.Thanks for suggestions so far everybody.. I'll slowly try working on comprehending them.

author: bitwelder
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2019, 06:32:54 am
content: Quote from: Hoggy on October 27, 2019, 11:32:43 pmYou could check if there is any makerspace (sometimes called also hackerspace) in your area.They have all the tools for such fabrications (like 3d printers), plus some expert volunteers that could design (and print) the knob in the shape you want, probably just for a small fee for the few grams of used plastic.But first of all, take care of yourself!

author: vk6zgo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2019, 07:38:14 am
content: There are shops (at least there are in Oz), which stock "slip on" knobs for people with similar problems to yours.They are usually for water tap (faucet) knobs, but I have seen them for other purposes.You probably need to be lucky to get one exactly right, but it may be worth trying.

author: KL27x
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2019, 08:15:48 am
content: Not that you don't have enough suggestions, already, but you can buy knobs that are already made. Browse McMaster or eBay.M8 1.25 also happens to be a common size for car shift knobs, so you can get a variety of 8-balls and chrome skulls that screw right on a piece of threaded rob. Just lock it on there with a nut.God forbid you just drill a hole through a piece of plywood or plastic and then put a bolt through it. That would be making something.https://www.ebay.com/itm/Pokemon-Poke-ball-Go-Round-Ball-Shift-Knob-54mm-MT-Transmission-M8X1-25-Adapter/123907191790?hash=item1cd971b3ee:g:mN0AAOSw7nJdfX3bThe biggest ball knob McMaster has is 35mm diameter. This is 54mm and comes with a M8 insert. Seems like all the China aftermarket shift knobs come with these inserts. You need to buy a length of M8 1.25 threaded rod and a nut. And you need a dremel or a hacksaw and a vice to cut the rod to length.There's an old trick for set screws that don't want to hold; it's to put a piece of lead shot under the end of the screw. Maybe if you flow a big fat bead of solder to melt the rosin out and flick it into water.

author: TERRA Operative
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2019, 12:41:29 pm
content: For the price of postage, I can 3D print something for you. I have white PET plastic which is strong and durable.I have the same Amscope stand, so it'll be easy to whip something up.There are some cheap shipping options from Japan to USA, otherwise I can make the 3D model and send it to someone stateside if that would be cheaper.

author: Hoggy
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 30, 2019, 03:03:02 am
content: Quote from: TERRA Operative on October 28, 2019, 12:41:29 pmI don't know, I'd hate to put you through any trouble - but out of curiosity, about how much might shipping cost for such a thing? I assume you mean a slip-on-knob.The other thing I was wondering about, is for that screw end, they seem to coat it with something so it doesn't scratch the pole/shaft - as that one comes in direct contact with the pole. Would anyone know what that would be, and if it could be coated 'at home'?

author: jfiresto
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 30, 2019, 09:40:09 am
content: Quote from: Hoggy on October 30, 2019, 03:03:02 amI once tried straight epoxy on a tip but it took quite a bit of force to get the screw to grip: way more than with a shaft collar.Another idea: you could try casting a push-on extension knob or lever, made of potting compound or structural adhesive. You could press the knob into a filled, half-open mold, wrapped and lined, respectively with clear, polyethylene film that the adhesive won't bond too.

author: mr.fabe
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2019, 07:21:30 pm
content: Quote from: TERRA Operative on October 28, 2019, 12:41:29 pmI don't have an Amcrest scope to make the model but have no problems printing the knobs and sending the adapter. I live in the U.S. if the OP wants to consider pursuing the 3D printed option.

author: TERRA Operative
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 01, 2019, 04:53:19 pm
content: I'll have a poke at the design this weekend and upload it to Thingiverse so anyone can print it if they like.

author: Hoggy
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 02, 2019, 02:14:34 am
content: Yes, that would be awesome - shipping from the US!

author: TERRA Operative
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 02, 2019, 04:13:24 pm
content: Ok, here's the first revision I whipped up. Let me know what you think.It's about 70mm in diameter and fits well in the hand and there are no sharp edges, but the 'knurling' gives a good grip.The knob is a press fit, so a little glue (maybe a blob of silicone caulking) or some thin double sided tape will probably work well to keep it attached without being totally permanent.

author: Hoggy
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 03, 2019, 02:25:33 am
content: Quote from: TERRA Operative on November 02, 2019, 04:13:24 pmLooks better than what I would've thought! It seems your 1st version is spot on.Thanks!

author: TERRA Operative
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 03, 2019, 06:35:10 am
content: Here you go!https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3953304Let me know if any adjustments are needed when it's printed and I can make a revision.(Or I can send you a few for not too much $$$, PM me if you want a price).

author: mr.fabe
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 03, 2019, 04:04:45 pm
content: Quote from: TERRA Operative on November 03, 2019, 06:35:10 amNice work on the knob adapters!Since the files were uploaded to Thingiverse, the OP can select a print service like Treatstock for a very cheap price including shipping. Multiple color and material choices printed and shipped directly to his door at around $10 USD.

author: Hoggy
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 05, 2019, 01:24:38 am
content: Thanks so much guys! For both the model and the Treatstock suggestion.Already ordered for $12, for 2 knob adapters.Have a model made in Japan, and printed and shipped from the US. Where else but the Internet.I'll tell you one thing though, this experience has made me seriously consider a 3D printer down the road.

author: TERRA Operative
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 05, 2019, 10:44:45 am
content: I think we must be living in thefuture!You are more than welcome too.Let us know how it goes and if you want any design changes, I can have another poke at it.

author: Hoggy
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 15, 2019, 05:34:50 am
content: Received and works perfectly!One was a really hard to get on, but that's kinda the point, right..I didn't put any glue on for now.. They were tight enough that I don't think there's any way in hell they're coming off as is, when using normally. But will obviously use glue or something if or when it becomes necessary.Thanks again, guys!

author: Hoggy
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 15, 2019, 05:44:00 am
content: I do wonder if a smaller one could be useful for the upper knob though, as that one I usually don't torque down as much - may not even need it really.. To allow more finger clearance between them, if using two.I think using that model for the lower knob is PERFECT though, as that one really DOES need to be torqued down much harder, in my experience.I may just decide to use the regular knob for the upper - I'll have to see how it goes.. Just keep the other as a spare. (I at least had the sense to use the easier-to-fit-on knob on for the upper, for that exact finger clearance reason.)

author: TERRA Operative
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 15, 2019, 05:58:44 am
content: Quote from: Hoggy on November 15, 2019, 05:34:50 amYeah, there is always a bit of tolerance variation for 3D printing, I tried to make the fit close but not toooo close (hense my suggestion for a bit of caulking etc), but if it works then the mission was a success.If decide you need a smaller knob adapter, let me know and I'll whip one up and put it on thingyverse. All the hard work of measuring the fitment to the existing knob is already done anyway.