By Envious Mods | Dec 19, 2015 | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
3-D printing isn’t anything new but, it’s uses are. The PC case modding industry has grown exponentially over the last few years and so has the amount of people with or with access to 3-D printers. Case modding is an industry where artisans craft custom computer cases that become an extension of their personality. It’s only a matter of time before the two industries collide to create true one off mods. The name of the game in the PC modding industry is to create something that no one else has.
Case modders also love to create an environment conducive to pushing the limits of their PCs capabilities. Being a modder myself, I know the need to build something that no ones ever seen. Having a 3-D printer helps to unlock the possibility to do just that.
Brainstorming ideas in CAD for the StarCraft Day Zero case
I decided to do a custom case build using my 3-D printer to print parts that are completely one of a kind. That build is called StarCraft Day Zero. I recently finished the, “Starcraft Day Zero” case mod. My Printrbot Plus was an important part of the case modding process. When I first started the brain storming process, I used sketchup to design parts that could be used to convey the Starcraft theme.
The first idea I had was to design a fan shroud that looked like it was pulled out of the world of Starcraft. Within less than an hour I was able to have a prototype ready to test out. This helped a lot with the creative process because I was physically able to see what it would look like mounted on a fan.
The process from design to prototype
After designing larger portions of the Starcraft case, I wanted to come up with a few smaller touches that could go along with the overall theme. The two items I chose consisted of a Nvidia keychain and a USB thumb drive; disguised as a Terran Marine’s dog tag. The Nvidia keychain was custom painted to look like it was battle hardened using acrylic paints. Luckily I was able to find the Terran USB drive dog tags on Thingiverse. Thingiverse is a site where designers can post parts to be 3D printed.
3D printed Terran Marine dog tag USB & custom keychain
I am currently designing a scratch PC build now. I’ve begun to realize how many one of a kind creations I can make. The last few months have been spent on this new design. The plan is to combine different forms of fabrication, including 3D printing. I can assure you that my Printrbot Plus will be busy making one of a kind, case modding creations.
Our StarCraft Day Zero build was recently featured by Maximum PC
I am starting to see more and more case modders start to realize the endless possibilities involved in 3-D printing. Everything from custom cable management to entire cases made primarily of printed parts. Case modding and 3-D printing are built for each other. Many modders are masters of CAD and design due to the extensive planning involved in sponsored builds. Sponsored builds are done when an experienced case modder is given hardware in order to build a case that can be taken to trade shows or shared online. They do this to show off the latest hardware manufacturers have to offer, which helps to boost sales.
Printrbot’s new 3D model; the Plus
Being able to express yourself creatively is a great experience. Wether that’s through making wild PC cases or making gifts for those you love. Having a 3-D printer allows me to do both. With companies like Printrbot offering great 3D printers at an affordable price. It allows more people to take the plunge and invest in a machine that let’s them be creative, in their own way.
For more pictures & information on Envious Mod’s builds check out our Instagram, Twitter or Facebook account.
For more information or to buy a Printrbot 3D printer; check out Printrbot’s site.
