Enclosure Disclosure

With the Shapeoko 2 mostly assembled, we need to make an enclosure to organize and protect the supporting electronics.

Step 1: Measure Items

We need dimensions of the items for this Shapeoko 2.

Dimensions

Part	X	Y	Z
48VDC Power Supply	4.5in	8.5in	2.0in
24VDC Power Adapter	2.4in	6.6in	1.30in
Arduino w/ gShield	2.3in	3in	1.07in
Isolated Relay	0.83in	1.97in	0.75in
Spindle Controller	2in	3in	2.8in
24VDC Fan	2.38in	2.38in	1.0in
Power Entry Module	1.1in	1.86in	1.05in
USB Bulkhead Cable	0.59in	0.9in	1.10in
Stepper Motor Connector (3x)	0.63in	0.63in	0.42in
Spindle Power Connector	0.63in	0.63in	0.42in
Spindle Speed Knob	0.68in	0.78in	1.10in

Step 2: Mock up Layout

Jumping into SketchUp, we start to mass up our plan by creating simple boxes using the measured dimensions. The boxes can them be moved around and flipped to figure out the best positioning.

After moving things around and adding some room for wiring, we can create the rough volume for the enclosure. We plan on using ABS plastic for the base and clear acrylic for the sides and top. Once we determine the base size, the other parts will fall in line.

Step 3: Create Detailed Layout

The enclosure is about 8.5in x 12in x 6in tall. Now we need to take the time to plan all the cutouts for parts that go through the enclosure like the Stepper Motor Connectors, Power Entry Module, and USB Bulkhead. The parts need attached to the base which will require bolts, standoffs, and straps. For such detail, it is time to move to the CAM software.

Should we use our usual desktop tool, Aspire, that we run on a virtual Windows install on OSX or do we take the time and try out the new web-based Easel.com?