3D printing enthusiast Yeetongu has created a fantastic rugged Raspberry Pi 4 case using cutouts of the Prusa filament spool as impact-absorbent additions, guarding the delicate components of the mini PC without impeding airflow. This innovative design not only provides robust protection but also ensures that the Raspberry Pi 4 remains cool and functional.
Design and Functionality
The rugged case is ingeniously designed to use the cutouts from Prusa filament spools as shock absorbers. These cutouts are strategically placed to cushion the Raspberry Pi 4, protecting it from potential impacts. The center piece of the case securely holds the Raspberry Pi, while the top and bottom plates are screwed on to clamp the spool cutouts in place. This design ensures that the case is both sturdy and easy to assemble.
The GPIO pins on the Raspberry Pi board are protected from damage by the case, yet they remain accessible through a slot in the top plate. This allows users to still utilize the GPIO pins for various projects without compromising the safety of the board. Additionally, there is ample clearance around all the sockets, and the micro SD card slot remains easily accessible, making it convenient for users to swap out storage as needed.
Cooling and Assembly
One of the key considerations in the design of this case is the cooling of the Raspberry Pi 4. The case does not impede airflow, which is crucial since the Raspberry Pi 4 is known to overheat. Users are advised to consider using heat sinks to further manage the temperature of the device. Heat sinks can be easily attached to the Raspberry Pi 4’s CPU and other components to dissipate heat more effectively, ensuring the device runs smoothly even under heavy loads.
For assembly, the case requires M3 x 12 cap head screws (8 pieces) and M2.5 x 4 cap or button head screws (4 pieces). If the M2.5 screws are too long, M3 nuts can be used as spacers under the screw head. This flexibility in assembly allows users to adapt the case to their specific needs and available hardware. The attached diagram provides a full parts list and an exploded view, making the assembly process straightforward even for those new to DIY projects.
This rugged case is an excellent example of how 3D printing can be used to create custom, functional accessories for popular electronics like the Raspberry Pi 4. By leveraging the properties of the Prusa filament spool cutouts, Yeetongu has managed to design a case that is both protective and practical. This case is ideal for anyone looking to safeguard their Raspberry Pi 4 while maintaining full functionality and ease of access.
For more information and to download the design files, visit the source links below:
Source : Prusa Printers : Adafruit
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