Framework, Noctua, and other brands add official 3D models to Printables

Adafruit, Framework Computer, Noctua, and Raspberry Pi are just a few of the device and accessory companies that have begun sharing free official 3D-printable models of parts, accessories, and mods on Printables, launching what the website hopes will be a general trend toward repair-friendly parts and community mods. Before unveiling a new portion of the website, Brands, Prusa Research, which moved its PrusaPrinters site to Printables.com in March, claims to have been "talking with a couple of heavyweights in their respective industries." Giving clients the choice to print specific components locally lowers the need for inventory and shipment. The company claims that by doing this, "brands can support the right-to-repair effort more easily" while also producing some cool modifications. [caption id="attachment_74634" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Image: Printables[/caption] According to Mikolas Zuza, a marketing specialist at Prusa Research, "we expect that in a few years it will be the standard to distribute 3D-printable models to complement the brand's products." Prusa Research is one of the nine brands that are currently listed on the Brands page. On Adafruit's website, there are a number of useful accessories for do-it-yourself projects, as well as cases and NeoPixel expansions. Only one official model, the 3D-printable mainboard case from Framework Computer (the one about which Lenovo first complained about a patent), has been placed online. However, the company has emphasized community models, such as a "Improved" SD expansion card. Noctua and Cooler Master provide a ton of brackets, clips, ducts, spacers, and other models if you're really immersed in the PC cooling rabbit hole. Many of the 3D models were already available on the websites of these businesses, but a consolidated, searchable website should aid in discovery and dissemination. [caption id="attachment_74635" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Image: Printables[/caption] Anyone who follows current Twitter news will recognize the small blue "Verified" symbol found on brand profiles on Printables. Aside from businesses, Printables also allows users to verify "well-known designers in the 3D printing community" (though details are not provided). It remains to be seen if additional businesses would unite on Printables, a website that, despite being open and collaborative, is controlled by only one 3D-printing business. If you're unsure whether a small resin thing will serve you better than a new product, here is at least a place to start searching.