MiniMIG Case Design

[Crom00]

With the ITX form factor seems to be desired I propose that the a custom case design be implemented. Something that reflects the desires of the community.

The design can be executed in a program like solidworks, Maya, or Rhino and actually a 3D file of the design can be printed via some low cost rapid portotyping methods. The resulting casework will require a fair amount of sanding, paint primer, and painting but... hey kids, this is homebrew. But it's possible.

The case designs 3d file can be available for free so that as rapid prototyping costs come down you will be able to print out a case or shell for less money...

Any thoughts?

[Crom00]

Here is a drawing of the kind of case I'd like to see, something that would look nice next to my XBOX-360, Wii, Ps3 and Dreamcast. Cast as ABS plastic in gloss (painted)silver, or injection molded white or black.

I know that things like the USB ports on the front, and the back ports don't exist, but again this is just a quick and dirty concept.

[Crom00]

Yes the MSX clone is very nice.

[Crom00]

Here is the outer shell of the case I drew in Adobe Illustrator redone here in Solidworks. The Mini-MIG board would snap into a series of snap hooks on a separate bottom case. The bottom then attach to the top via screws.

This is more of a proof of conecpt regarding my orignal post, where I mentioned a 3d file that folks can download and print themselves.

Or... if someone wanted to print a prototype/mold/cast and run off a small production run that would work to.

Ideally I'd want to have a REAL Mini-MIG board in my hands first, before finishing a case.

The cut out section of the back would have all the ports, similar to an ATX or ITX rear panel.

[Crom00]

Various views of case. Note the open back section for various ports.

[Crom00]

Vlabguy1 wrote:
Almost like a Mac Mini.. :-)..only better..

Is this the final design?  I just got your email  before I checked the
thread...lol.
No firewire ports??  :-(


Rich

Firewire? lol!!

Not the final design, I checked the current Mini-MIG board layout by Dennis... now I know why so the MSX clone case design was suggested.

Eventualy if the board designed into an ITX form factor with the ports in the back that would be great.

Can always mess with more designs at some point.

[Crom00]

Fester wrote:

I'd go for your design. The logo is nice and the case is clean  and straightforward.

Thanks, the design is being executed in Solidworks so if anyone gets a hold of a Mini-MIG one day feel free to pm me for the source files. Solidworks is a parametric modeller. So you simply change dimemsions to adjust part sizes. So if you want to make the whole thing .25" wider, you can do it with a few button presses.

Cheers!