Raspberry Pi Camera Mount for MakerFarm Prusa i3v (OctoPrint)

thingiverse

These parts allow you to mount a Raspberry Pi camera with advanced illumination features on your MakerFarm Prusa i3v, enabling precise observation of the printer's bed in real-time. The setup is specifically designed for use with OctoPrint on a Raspberry Pi as a network-enabled printer controller. The robust bracket securely attaches to the left bed rail using two M5 screws and accompanying washers, along with T-nuts, which were conveniently included in my kit. A supplementary M3 screw and nut are also required for creating a finger joint at the top of the camera mast. Fortunately, I had spare parts available. The sophisticated camera head holds two 1.5W LED corn lights, readily available from HobbyKing for a minimal investment of approximately two dollars: http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewitem.asp?idproduct=26408&aff=624762 In addition to the expertly crafted printed parts, you will need to acquire a piece of carbon fiber arrow shaft. In the US, this essential component can be easily sourced at Wal-Mart for less than four dollars. The comprehensive setup comes with detailed instructions that guide you through the installation process. Some helpful tips are provided below: When preparing the Raspberry Pi camera module (Rev. 1.3), note that its built-in focus cannot effectively capture clear images from this distance. To rectify this issue, carefully unscrew the lens to achieve a clear image. This can be done by first picking out the glue securing the lens with a dental pick and then releasing it using pliers. To assemble the camera housing fingers smoothly, gently enlarge the holes using a 1/8-inch drill bit (or 3mm) to ensure proper fitment for the M3 screw. For added accuracy, use sandpaper wrapped around a craft stick to refine the joint's tolerance. When capturing images under the provided HobbyKing LED lights, it's advisable to utilize the camera's color-correction features by adjusting the white balance settings to "Horizon" and "Sun."