Raspberry Pi 3 modular case for DIY projects - various sizes - parametric source files included

thingiverse

This is a straightforward to print modular case that requires no additional support. It's mostly suited for DIY projects, but it could also work for media PC use if you ignore the Raspberry Pi header. The case was designed with flexibility in mind, allowing users to connect devices to the pin header. In my case, I used an ICE40HX FPGA board called iceZero. All holes for connectors have generous margins, making it easy to fit thick cables. The case also has plenty of holes for good ventilation, including on the underside of the PCB. This means you can print the case without any support material or issues. The base of the case has a gap between the bottom and PCB, allowing for a small heatsink even on the RAM chip. This keeps both sides cool. The base is designed to accommodate threaded inserts like these: https://www.ebay.com/itm/20-100PCS-Knurl-Insert-Threaded-Round-Embedded-Solid-Brass-Round-Nut-M2-M2-5-M3/223444884749?hash=item34065a5d0d:m:mUDnvXoq4d9_tWcbNbTHfgA An M2.5 insert with a 3.8mm outer diameter can be used, allowing you to add a second insert or one long insert and screw the case against something else. The bottom part of the case has various variants, each with a different amount of extra space between the PCB and top (measured in mm). If your project evolves over time and the original size is too small, an addon module can be printed to extend the height. These modules will stack up on each other. It's recommended to flip this addon model by 180 degrees in X-axis for easier printing. The overhangs are 45 degrees and only a few mm big, so it should print without any support issues. The top/cover model has various designs with vents for fans or without fans. One design is made for a 60mm fan that can be mounted on the outside or inside (the inside will fit a 60mm fan perfectly, but nothing bigger). There's also one variant for various fans with many holes in hopes some will fit your fan dimensions. If needed, all these files can be tweaked (parametric sources included), but if something specific is needed, I'm happy to supply it. Just leave a comment with a request. The top/cover has holes for screws that are slightly counter sunk, so it won't scratch other things when carried in a bag and will allow for the top to be screwed in while allowing a fan to be screwed on top of it (without interference with the previous screws). This feature creates an overhang of 65 degrees and is few layers big, so it shouldn't require support. However, some screws might have to be enlarged manually in post-processing with a drill or file. The top/cover model has matching holes with the base, so when long standoffs are installed (or long screws used), the top can get screwed into it directly. If screwing it in is not an option, it's possible to use a small dab of glue to make it fixed (while no making it fully permanent). Another option is to do nothing, as the top does friction fits on the bottom model (or on the addon model) and for desktop projects that can be enough protection and should stay together under normal use. There's also a 'lip' feature which does friction fit on the bottom/addon and fixes the top/cover in three degrees of freedom anyway. For a permanent enclosure, any generic glue can be used, as the 'lip' increases the surface area and should form very strong (permanent bond).