We occasionally get questions from people who would like a case or enclosure for their Express or Lightning device so they can put it in a backpack or use it in a live performance.
We don't currently offer such a case, but we do provide basic 2D and 3D models that you can use to produce your own.
These models feature accurate dimensions and positions for holes and cutouts.
We provide these models in the hope that they will be useful. They are not intended as examples of great 2D and 3D design. Please use at your own risk!
The 3D models consist of Stereolithography (.stl) files that you can 3D print or import into 3D modeling software.
The 3D model for Express is 200 mm wide by 100 mm high by 9.5 mm deep, with an average wall thickness of 2 mm. It mounts on top of the existing Express PCB and contains cutouts for the display, function keys, rotary encoder and touch sensors.
The case has a mounting hole in each corner that lines up with the mounting hole in the PCB and the wood base.
To install the case on a Wildwood Express v3 device you will need a 2 mm hex key / Allen wrench, a small Philips screwdriver and four M3 x 22 nylon bolts. You can also substitute M3 stainless steel bolts, washers and nuts if you prefer:
Here is the 3D model for Express v3:
Click here to download the .stl file for Express.
The 3D model for Lightning is 103 mm wide by 141 mm high by 8 mm deep, with an average wall thickness of 2 mm. It is slightly larger than than the 100 mm wide by 138 mm high PCB and wood base to accomodate the components that are nearly flush with the edge of the PCB. It contains cutouts for the display and touch sensors. It also has a cutout for the 3.5 mm AUX audio jack for clearance.
The case has a mounting hole in each corner that lines up with the mounting hole in the PCB and the wood base. To mount it, you will need to remove the existing M3 x 15 mm nylon bolts and nuts and replace them with new M3 x 22 mm nylon bolts and nuts.
Here is the 3D model for Lightning v1:
Click here to download the .stl file for Lightning.
You can import the 3D models into 3D modeling software and use them as a template for further design, or print them directly, e.g. using Cura to slice and create .gcode files.
You can also upload the models to a 3D printing service such as CraftCloud and purchase 3D printed parts in a variety of materials including low cost options like PLA or ABS plastic. Do not use metals because they are conductive and will cause short-circuits that will damage the device.
The configuration settings and capabilities of the 3D printer and the slicing software have a significant effect on the final quality and time required to print.
Be prepared to experiment and modify these models as needed. For example, the Express LED hole size in the model is 2 mm, but in a lower resolution mode on an Ender-3, it prints as 1 mm.
The 3D models are inverted such that the top surface of the 3D printed object prints first. This enables the printing of the sides of the object without requiring supports for the empty interior.
The 2D models consist of Scalable Vector Graphics (.svg) files that contain circles and rectangles for the major features of the top surface of your Wildwood Soundworks device. The 3D models above were created from these 2D models.
You can import these .svg files into a drawing or 3D modeling program and use them as a starting point for your own 2D or 3D models. You can also use .svg files with web-based lasercutting services such as Sculpteo.
Here is the .svg file for Express:
Right click on it and save the image as an .svg file. Then import it into your drawing or 3D modeling program and set the dimensions to 200 mm (width) x 100 mm (height).
Here is the .svg file for Lightning:
Right click on it and save the image as an .svg file. Then import it into your drawing or 3D modeling program and set the dimensions to 100 mm (width) x 138 mm (height).
Although 3D printing and lasercutting are great for rendering abstract designs as tangible objects, the end result frequently suffers from poor surface quality. You may be able to improve the quality by post processing.
You can improve the quality of 3D printed objects by sanding, filling and painting. Use 220 grit sandpaper and sand lightly until smooth. Sanding too quickly can produce heat which will raise the surface. After sanding, apply at least two coats of spray primer / filler (e.g. Rustoleum Filler Primer) following the manufacturer's instructions. Once dry, apply at least two coats of finish spray paint.
Depending on settings and air assist, lasercut wood can end up with soot on the edges and surfaces of the finished product. Remove these with 220 grit sandpaper or a sanding mop. Finish with spray paint or stain.