NeoPixel & BlinkStick Pro Enclosure

thingiverse

A precision-crafted laser-cut enclosure for 8 NeoPixels on a strip, plus space at the rear for a BlinkStick Pro, creates an ultra-modern and sleek look. This ultimate USB notification light features a ruggedized design that transforms bare boards and wires into a stunning work of art, perfect for adding some flair to your desk. Check out http://blinkstick.com to discover your own custom BlinkStick and unleash the creativity within! This design allows for seamless insertion and removal of NeoPixel strips without the need for adhesives or permanent fixtures. Feel free to use it with any Neopixel project, be it a quirky desktop accessory or a high-tech gadget. Watch this beauty in action: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KM5WeHq5jw8 --- Materials Needed: • Acrylic Sheets (Multiple Types) Acrylic used in this design includes three distinct types for varying effects. Three-millimeter smoke-colored acrylic serves as the rear layer, while six-millimeter clear acrylic is used for the middle piece to accommodate a NeoPixel strip's insertion and removal with ease. For added flair, three-millimeter frosted opal-colored acrylic is used for the faceplate and stand. Choose your desired material carefully; it will directly influence the look of the LEDs, making every piece uniquely personalized. I initially attempted using three-millimeter acrylic for the middle section but soon realized that a higher thickness (six millimeters in this instance) allows smoother integration of LED strips. Depending on the thickness of your wires and preferences, four or five millimeters could also be suitable options. Acrylic Solvent: Used here is "Plastic Weld," an effective adhesive perfect for crafting complex acrylic pieces. Hardware Components: - 6 M3x10mm Screws - 3 M3x20mm Hex Spacers - Double-Sided Tape for the BlinkStick Mount Pixel Strip Installation Instructions: 1. **Design and Preparation** Download the SVG design file (provided) or use your own. Convert it to a format suitable for your laser cutter. My choice of laser cutter requires DXF files, which Inkscape exports effortlessly. 2. **Cutting the Acrylic**: Identify all cuts marked in black; start by making smaller cuts first. The text colored red serves as informative cues only, so avoid cutting those sections at any cost! 3. **Assembly**: Combine the three long pieces correctly and securely hold them together using a small amount of Sellotape to keep the corners aligned properly. 4. **Bonding the Layers**: Using a syringe and needle, carefully apply a tiny drop of Plastic Weld onto each bond between layers. Allow enough time (about 30 seconds) for it to harden into a strong and lasting seal before removing any tape holding the parts in place. 5. **Installation**: Carefully insert your NeoPixel strip from the thicker backside through its designated slot first, making sure it aligns well before pushing it fully home into the rear holder section. Stand Assembly: 1. Secure the three spacers to one side of the stand using the machine screws. 2. Place the bed (intended for the BlinkStick) on this newly created fixture and insert it snugly against a specific mounting bracket. 3. Match up the second component with corresponding slots in its back part for both screw locations to make sure it gets securely locked onto all corners by applying more screws from the underside where they are hidden. BlinkStick Mounting: Ensure that strong double-sided foam tape firmly attaches your BlinkStick's backside to create enough clearance between its bottom edge and surface where you can later stick on a USB extension cable without any problem, thus securing every electrical requirement with this beautiful DIY.