Toshiba Canvio Basics 2.5" External HDD Under-counter Modules - Expandable

thingiverse

I spent countless hours searching for a 2.5-inch external multiple module HDD under-counter mount that met my requirements, but ultimately couldn't find one that fit perfectly, so I decided to take matters into my own hands. As I continue to learn the ins and outs of 3D design using Sketchup, this project was a great challenge for me to tackle - it required precision, patience, and attention to detail. Luckily, my hard work paid off, and the end result exceeded my expectations! Here's what I aimed to achieve: I wanted to create a system that would allow me to mount three of my external Toshiba Canvio Basics 2.5-inch HDDs under a shelf above my PC box, while also ensuring that they met several key criteria: * They needed to have a universal backplate to prevent the drives from sliding straight through the other side. * I wanted to be able to use different brand drives without any issues, as the USB connectors seem to vary in location across brands. * The modules had to stack neatly below each other without requiring additional screws, nuts, or bolts. * They needed to be easy to add or remove in situ without needing tools. The result is a modular slide-on system where only the top-most module (Toshiba_Canvio_Basics_2.5-inch_HDD_Modular_Holder_Upper.stl) is screwed to the under-counter/shelf with 4 regular chipboard screws - theoretically, any number of lower modules (Toshiba_Canvio_Basics_2.5-inch_HDD_Modular_Holder_Lower.stl) could be added to make the holder as big or small as needed. You could also scale up for 3.5-inch external drives, although the wall thicknesses would increase. ABS or PLA? I recently set up and fine-tuned my new Creality CR-10S4; I initially planned to print this in ABS as a first print, but given our current winter weather, with garage temperatures maxing out at 15'C during the day with the heating on, and lacking an enclosure, I decided to print in PLA instead. I HAVE NOT TESTED WITH ABS SO CANNOT CONFIRM IF THE TOLERANCES WOULD WORK. Settings: The settings I used are listed below; however, I did bump up the infill % to ensure that the modules were solid - they should be more than strong enough to hold up to 10 HDD's comfortably, maybe even more. Assembly: I designed the slide-in sections with very tight tolerances, so they can be a bit tricky to fit using hands alone; use a rubber mallet to gently coax them if needed. Being tight, they won't come apart easily or move when adding or removing the drives themselves. The modules do however easily slide onto the screw-mounted upper module without any issues. If you want easier "slide action" on the modules themselves, a bit of sanding will allow them to slide together and apart more smoothly; maybe even some vaseline or light grease if required - always test fit the modules before attaching to the under-counter space. I mounted the first module with a few rubber washers from some PC fan kits I had, adding them between the upper module and the wood shelf to absorb any potential vibrations, etc. Final Comments: For my first "real" design, it turned out really well - they are practical, functional, and also look great. The SKP file is included, should you wish to improve or adjust the dimensions. Comments and feedback welcome!