The file 'Dual Plank Mouse Trap (magnetless) 3D Printer Model' is (stl) file type, size is 44.81 KB.
This is a unique walk-the-plank style mouse trap, which does NOT use a magnet. Other than a coin or 2 for counterweight, it is fully printable, no screws or magnets.
Usually most plank traps require a magnet, in order to suddenly release at the right moment, and then reset themselves. However this one only relies on leverage, friction, and a counterweight to achieve the same results. So it's easier to make, and will still catch tons mice without needing to be manually reset.
The frame is designed to attach to a normal/tall bucket, cat-litter bucket, or rubbermaid-style kitchen trash bin.. Most similar things should work, as long as the rim isn't too thick, but I only had those 3 to test on. You may also need some tape to properly secure the trap, so it doesn't move or fall off during use, depending on what your attaching to.
I've been using it for a live-trap (works for live or drown), by putting some fluffy bedding in the bottom of a bucket, like shredded paper, which usually keeps mice from jumping high enough to get out, tho I did switch to a taller kitchen trash bin after a couple managed to leap out.
During assembly, tape a Quarter/coin to the Trigger Plank, opposite the bait-grate end, as seen in the image above. Might need 2 coins, so try adding a dime/penny, to get the balance just right, depending on how heavy the print is. If the trigger isn't sensitive enough, try sanding the tab on the back frame piece, where the little point of the trigger plank contacts it, or the point itself, just be careful not to overdo it. The counterweight also effect how sensitive the Trigger mechanism is, as well as how level the top plank sits. Other tweaks may also be necessary depending on how it prints for you. Please feel free to make suggestions, if you think of a way to improve this design, or if there's something I need to fix.
This design is based off the Planky B mouse trap. Prototype1 was my first version, and it worked pretty good, cause now there's no more mice. So I haven't been able to test V2 on real mice yet, but it should be a significant improvement, as I tightened things up a bit and put more thought into designing each part.
DualPlankV2_BackFrame.stl |
DualPlankV2_SideFrame.stl |
DualPlankV2_StablePlank.stl |
DualPlankV2_TriggerPlank.stl |
DualPlank_BackFrame_prototype1.stl |
DualPlank_SideSide_prototype1.stl |
DualPlank_StablePlank_prototype1.stl |
DualPlank_TriggerPlank_prototype1.stl |