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Background

These are stackable Raspberry Pi 1, 2, 3 & 4 cases for parallel programming and clusters. The idea is that the cases can be used individually for small Pi projects or scaled to as many as needed with modules that can aid in larger configurations.

Modules

• Covered: Fully enclosed Pi case. This is a case focused on aesthetics, but still has plenty of vents for proper cooling. More material is used, but the Pi will also be better protected.
• Slim: Minimal Pi case design. This will use less material, but leaves the Pi less protected. Better cooling is a perk of this design.
• 120mm Fan: For those who need extra cooling, the fan will suck ambient air in to the stack. It is recommended with this setup to use a fan guard (link at bottom of description). When running the 120mm fan, it is almost useless to have the 30mm fans. Plenty of air will be moved with the larger unit, so the smaller fans will become unnecessary.
• POE Hat: (RPi3 ONLY) Power over Ethernet will make the wiring for this setup much cleaner and can prove to be ideal in certain applications. Note that the "standoff" version of the base must be used for each case. This allows for the use of a hat on the Pi, which in this case, is the POE add-on. Other hats can be used following the same setup, but may need a different lid. If you run in to the problem of a lid not fitting correctly with a hat, please let me know!
• Ethernet Switch: This is particularly useful when using the POE to power and send data to the Pi's. It also cleans up the mess of wires that could be making its way to a remote Ethernet switch. This module is adjustable and can be used with multiple Ethernet switch sizes. The size of the Ethernet switch must fit within the following dimensional constraints: W: 75mm, L: 105mm, H: 35mm. I recommend something like this for the Ethernet switch.
• PSU: Power all your Pi needs by incorporating a 5V PSU. This is helpful in achieving a clean setup and for running the fan module. The size of the PSU must fit within the following dimensional constraints: W: 75mm, L: 105mm, H: 35mm. Something like this could work well. Then, a 5V 120mm USB fan could also be used along with the Pi's.
• Pi 2 & 3 Cases: To use a 2nd or 3rd-gen Raspberry Pi, please use the Slim and/or Covered modules from my previous design here. These will work with any of the modules provided in this updated version and follow the same assembly instructions. The only difference is that the cases are made for a Pi 3 instead of a Pi 4.
• Pi 1 Model B Case: For those interested in a Slim case (similar to part 100-0031) for the RPi 1 Model B, check out a remix by Ferberto here.

How Does the Stacking Work?

Each case is held together by M3x12mm male-female standoffs. The stacking is done by pegs that press in tightly to ensure there is no movement among each module. Both types of cases are the same dimensions, so there is no problem with mixing them up in a stack.

Required Hardware

Please refer to the PDFs attached under the "Thing Files" tab.
Below are some quick references for the top level assemblies:

• 100-0001 (Angular / Vertical Cluster)
• 100-0017 (Double Stack / Horizontal Cluster) - this is the main thumbnail for this Thing
• 100-0003 (Single Cluster)
• 100-0029 (Slim Case & Accessories)
• 100-0037 (Covered Case & Accessories)
• 100-0006 (PSU Module)
• 100-0007 (Ethernet Switch Module)

Assembly

Before buying or printing, look at the drawings to understand what will be needed. These are available as PDFs under the "Thing Files" tab. Exploded views are available in these drawings along with BOMs in order to aid during the assembly/purchasing process. All parts that need to be purchased are listed with a "P" in front of the part number so it is easily identifiable in the BOM. it is also a good idea to see the "Other Notes" section highlighted in bold to get a quick summary of some different options that are available.

Feel free to get creative with these! There are no limits to what configuration you can use and do not restrict yourself to the PDFs. The drawings are intended for those who do not feel as comfortable making their own units and would rather see it clean and clear. And if you do make a unit, feel free to share it!

Recommended Print Settings

• Use supports on each print (touching build plate)
• Layer resolution <= 0.2mm

Other Notes

• For each style of case, there is an option for a base that uses standoffs or pegs to attach the Pi. If you are using the standoff version, you do not need standoffs to attach the Pi, only 4X M2.5x5mm Screws and 4X M2.5 Nuts. Then, if you are using a hat, you can directly attach the male-ends of the standoffs on the base. The pegs are a great option for those who do not have M2.5 standoffs on hand and when not using hats.
• Standoffs are available for quad stacks, triple stacks, and double stacks. These parts are 100-0011, 100-0048, and 100-0049, respectively.
• Many fans require different fan bracket widths. This measurement takes place between the two flanges on the fan where the part is placed. Note that there are 2 other parts available: 100-0046 & 100-0047 with widths of 16mm & 17.5mm, respectively. "Fan_Bracket_Template.step" is also available to modify to a custom width if needed.
• For all cases, it is optional to have a 5V 30mm fan (link at bottom of description) connected to the power pin on the Pi. If running the 120mm fan, however, this is entirely unnecessary. It is recommended to only use the 30mm fan when using the cases as stand-alone units.
• If you plan on linking stacks together without the use of standoffs such as the image here, substitute the bolts that attach the fan bracket (100-0013) to the fan block spacer (100-0016) with a M3x40mm fastener. This will clamp the fan brackets from each side joining the two stacks.

Helpful Links

Fan guards:
https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2802474
For this model, I used a fan grill from GradCAD by Igor Erokhin:
https://grabcad.com/library/120mm-fan-grill-1

5V Pi fans:
https://www.amazon.com/Easycargo-Raspberry-30x30x7mm-Brushless-30mmx30mmx7mm/dp/B0792BW2VH/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1547336001&sr=8-8&keywords=raspberry+pi+fan

A step file is available of the fan platform (100-0014) as "Fan_Platform_Template.step" and the fan bracket (100-0013) as "Fan_Bracket_Template.step" for those who would like to create their own modules and/or adjustments. Please share these with me and I will link them to this page!

Although I am happy to post helpful links to products, I do not take responsibility for the product's function. These are simply for demonstration purposes so it is easier to be on the right track. Thank you for your understanding!

Please comment with any questions or recommendations you may have!

Special Thanks & Tip

I am very passionate about the open-source community that provides a means for anyone to make, create, and remix amazing files across the web. It is truly amazing what additive manufacturing has accomplished by delivering a fast and affordable means to manufacture parts. Better yet, the bright and driven community behind the tech makes it even easier for those interested to get involved! Each of my designs are made free of capital but my own. If you found this particular project useful, please consider leaving me a tip (you don't have to, but if you insist, a small donation would be greatly appreciated!). This will go towards funding future projects like these, so I can continue to share my designs with the community!