Parametric 3D Printed Electronics Case/Enclosure

Cases/Enclosures for electronics project are often a bit of a pain. They cost too much, it is hard to find the right size, and after one is in hand it can be quite a bit of work to finish off all the holes, mounting bits and so on. Perhaps 3D print can come to the rescue. I looked around for what are called parametric models of cases -- I did not find any that were quite what I had in mind so I designed my own.

This is an article started by Russ Hensel, see "http://www.opencircuits.com/index.php?title=Russ_hensel#About My Articles" '''About My Articles''' for a bit of info. This project is just about ready for upload to github.

Requirements

• FreeCad based.
• Parametric -- at least for height, width and base.
• Easy to customize each face with holes .....
• Early idea was to print 4 walls as one price, then use sheet stock for top and bottom -- still an option.
• Various options as to how to print the 6 different sides, as 1...6 sides.

Result

Not yet complete but it works. Made a few basic enclosures, but till I need another one off on other projects.

Get the Files

See github: .......

Modifications I Might Make

• Add additional optional structures internally for mounting.
• Perhaps slide in slots for boards.
• Better control of the bolt holes.

Use

Sample Workflow

There are a number of decisions that you need to make prior to messing with the files:

• How big -- just enter the numbers in the spreadsheet.
• How thick -- just enter the number in the spreadsheet.
• How do you want it to open and close. Normally at least one side must come off to mount the components inside, you could glue it closed but service is a problem.

You can tape it closed, use nuts and bolts, or self tap bolts into it. You may want to print some parts separately but then glue them together.

• How many parts to you want to print and at what orientation: You could print the 4 walls as one piece and then a top and bottom or a larger number of pieces. Right now I

expect the front to be printed with the sides. To implement you plan make fusions of the desired parts, mesh them and export. Not yet. Additional details below.

• You need not use the top as the top, it could be the front, decide for yourself.
• What holes do you want in each side? Each side has an associated sketch for holes in that side. Lay out your parts and update the sketches.