We’re not to the point where a completely 3D printable circuit board is feasible – although we’re getting close – but that doesn’t mean that 3D printing can’t save makers and home builders plenty of time by allowing for the creation of custom shaped boards. Over on YouMagine, user JonnyBischof created a customized 3D printed circuit board (with enclosure) for his Ultimaker Heated Bed MosFET Relay Hack.
Jonny wanted to puthisUltimaker 1and its heated print bed on completely separate power supplies, to prevent excessive strain on the UM1’s own power. To do so, he needed to create a custom circuit board, which he 3D printed and fit with components himself. The project requires a soldering station and some basic electronics solder, but the legs on the components can be used to solder them in place.
The entire circuit board enclosure is fully ESD protected and has space for an LED indicator that will light up when the heated print bed is being powered. Currently the design uses self-tapping screws for thermoplastics, but Jonny said that he’d be willing to adjust the design if you need to use standard M3 screws. He also warns that anyone who builds the enclosure should make sure that it isn’t placed on the power supply unit or anything else that generates heat. The device itself doesn’t get hot, but it could melt down if exposed to heat from a different source.
On the YouMagine page, Jonny includes a detailed set of build instructions and the bill of materials includes supplier information, so it will be really easy to source the parts. He suggests that you purchase the components and the second power supply needed from Mouser.
One of the great things about 3D printing is the versatility of the process. No, you can’t 3D print entire products yet, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t custom build parts of your DIY product. You can find out more about this project over on its YouMagine page, and see Jonny’s other projects and builds on his profile.
