We’ve seen a number of jobs throughout the years that let you produce custom enclosures utilizing OpenSCAD, as well as for great reason. The parametric CAD tool is perfect for generating 3D designs based on user-adjustable variables, as well as if you leverage its integrated Customizer, creating a bespoke box is as simple as moving some sliders around. The resulting data get sent off to the 3D printer, as well as you’re set. however what if you’re looking for a custom enclosure that’s not so…plastic?
In that case, AlClosure by [0xPIT] may be the answer. rather than generating STL data meant for your 3D printer, the code is written to assist you style an enclosure made of aluminum sheets. The top as well as bottom panels are meant to be cut from 1.5 mm – 2.5 mm sheets, while the sides are made of thicker 5 mm – 8 mm stock to accept a machined pocket that holds the front as well as rear inserts.
Since it’s OpenSCAD, much of the style is governed by variables which you can tweak. obviously the outside dimensions of the enclosure can be altered in a flash, however it’s just as simple to customize the thickness of the aluminum sheet being used, or the size of the screw holes. [0xPIT] has likewise done a fantastic task of documenting the code itself, so you’ll understand precisely what you’re modifying.
Obviously, you’ll requirement the capability to cut as well as machine aluminum to really use this project. The code itself is truly just a method to conceptualize the style as well as get your dimensions figured out ahead of time. however as we were just recently reminded by the keynote presentation [Jeremy Fielding] provided at the 2021 Remoticon, this kind of early prototyping can frequently save you a great deal of headaches down the line.
