Engineer Dhamdhawach Horsuwan is engaged on a modular prototyping system that places PCBs into standardized 3D-printable snap-to-connect frames for ease of meeting: SnapBoard.
“SnapBoard is a modular, snap-fit prototyping body designed to securely maintain a number of printed circuit boards (PCBs) throughout fast growth and testing,” Horsuwan explains of the undertaking. “Engineered for flexibility and reusability, SnapBoard options tool-less PCB set up utilizing compliant snap-fit mechanisms, permitting quick swapping of modules with out screws or soldering. The body accommodates numerous board sizes by way of interchangeable mounts and is optimized for 3D printing utilizing customary FDM printers.”
In the event you’ve bought a 3D printer and are searching for a extra sturdy strategy to prototyping, SnapBoards could possibly be for you. (📷: Dhamdhawach Horsuwan)
The thought is easy: a number microcontroller or, sooner or later, a single-board pc is snapped right into a 3D-printed service after which into a bigger body. Mentioned body consists of area for extra 3D-printed carriers, internet hosting add-on boards like sensors and shows. All the things is held securely in place with out screws, bolts, or glue, and may then be linked utilizing customary jumper wires — or soldered, for a extra everlasting prototype.
“SnapBoard was impressed by a necessity for a sturdy but versatile framework to prepare modular breakout boards throughout {hardware} prototyping,” Horsuwan explains. “Slightly than designing customized PCBs for each undertaking, I choose working with modular breakout boards linked by way of Dupont wires. SnapBoard gives a extra sturdy and reusable various to conventional breadboards — preferrred for setups that evolve incessantly however nonetheless profit from mechanical group and sturdiness.”
Boards and parts are put in in 3D-printed carriers that snap into the principle framework, all tool-free. (📷: Dhamdhawach Horsuwan)
Whereas Hosuwan says the undertaking continues to be within the early proof-of-concept stage, frames have already been designed for a number of parts together with Espressif ESP32- and Arduino Nano-style growth boards, an OLED show, a potentiometer, perfboard, and a AVIA Semiconductor HX711 load-cell amplifier.
Extra info on the undertaking is out there on Thingiverse, together with 3D print recordsdata for the framework and the elements holders underneath a reciprocal Artistic Commons Attribution-ShareAlike license.
