Designing & 3D Printing a Custom Raspberry Pi Camera Case in Onshape

Published on Vinjo by Vinay • Learn how to design a custom functional enclosure for the Raspberry Pi Camera Module using Onshape CAD and bring it to life on an Ender 3 S1 Pro via OctoPrint.

Quick Overview & Specifications

AttributeDetails
PublicationVinjo Engineering & Technology
CategoryCAD
AuthorVinay
Article TypeTechnical Tutorial & Case Study
Published2026-10-20
Last Updated2026-10-20
License / AccessOpen Educational Resource
Core Engineering Highlights:
  1. Verified hardware architecture, schematics, and pinout diagrams.
  2. Comprehensive firmware routines, protocol benchmarks, and build steps.
  3. Production design rules, tolerances, and thermal considerations.
Related Topic Taxonomy:
  • #3D Printing
  • #Onshape
  • #Raspberry Pi
  • #Ender 3 S1 Pro
  • #OctoPrint

Designing & 3D Printing a Custom Raspberry Pi Camera Case in Onshape

Summary: A step-by-step breakdown of how to design a protective and sleek custom camera case for the Raspberry Pi Camera Module using Onshape cloud CAD, slicing the model, and printing it cleanly on an Ender 3 S1 Pro printer managed by OctoPrint.

Key Takeaways

  • Parametric CAD Modeling: Utilizing Onshape's browser-based features to model exact dimensions for the Raspberry Pi Camera Module lens and mounting holes.
  • Precision 3D Printing: Achieving accurate tolerances on the Ender 3 S1 Pro for a snap-fit or screw-fastened camera enclosure.
  • Workflow Automation with OctoPrint: Wirelessly monitoring and managing the 3D print process remotely.

Detailed Overview

Protecting small electronic components like the Raspberry Pi Camera Module is essential for robotics, time-lapse setups, and smart home projects. Creating a custom 3D-printed enclosure ensures perfect clearance for the camera lens, ribbon cable, and mounting points.

CAD Design in Onshape

Step 1: CAD Design in Onshape

The project begins inside Onshape, a powerful cloud-based parametric CAD platform.

  1. Dimensional Layout: Taking precise measurements of the Raspberry Pi Camera PCB board, mounting hole positions, and lens height.
  2. Sketching & Extrusion: Sketching the outer frame and applying extrusions to form a two-piece housing (front plate and back cover).
  3. Cable Cutouts & Lens Port: Adding dedicated openings for the flexible flat ribbon cable to pass through without strain, alongside a centered aperture for the camera lens aperture.

Slicing and Print Preparation

Step 2: Exporting and Slicing

Once the 3D geometry is finalized in Onshape, the parts are exported as STL files for slicing:

  • Layer Height: Optimized for fine detail around small screw holes or press-fit pins.
  • Infill: 15% to 20% infill provides more than enough structural rigidity for a light camera housing.
  • Orientation: Orienting the flat surfaces downward onto the build plate minimizes the need for support structures.

3D Printing on Ender 3 S1 Pro

Step 3: Printing with Ender 3 S1 Pro & OctoPrint

With the G-code generated, the file is sent directly to the Ender 3 S1Pro setup, which is integrated with OctoPrint.

OctoPrint enables seamless wireless monitoring of the print job, real-time temperature tracking, and precise control over the printing process. The Ender 3 S1 Pro delivers clean layer lines and reliable bed adhesion, producing a tight-fitting case ready for immediate assembly.

Technical Specifications & Tools

Component / Tool Details Link / Resource
CAD Software Onshape (Cloud Parametric CAD) Onshape
3D Printer Creality Ender 3 S1 Pro Ender 3 S1Pro
Print Server OctoPrint OctoPrint
Target Hardware Raspberry Pi Camera Module Standard Module Form Factor

Conclusion

Combining cloud CAD modeling in Onshape with direct print monitoring via OctoPrint provides a smooth, repeatable maker workflow. Custom enclosures keep delicate hardware like the Raspberry Pi Camera Module safe while keeping your workspace organized and functional.