SnapBoard : 3D-printed Modular circuit frame

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For people who work with breakout modules, we are using breadboard for so long!!
Breadboard is great for building some circuit to test, but for breakout modules? it just a holder it limited choice and power supply rail for dupont wires. I propose alternative way to construct prototype circuit from breakout modules, since is fast, cheap and more flexible, suitable for exploring new modules and prototyping, compare to designing our own PCB or Soldering Purfboard. This is a work in progress, currently at the proof-of-concept stage and I would like to discuss about usabillity of this concept. The design is based on two key principles:

  1. Firmly holds components together
  2. No screws required

Inspired by DIN rails, this system enables fast assembly and high flexibility for modular electronics setups. :link: View on Thingiverse All current designs are available on Thingiverse. Feel free to explore and discuss if you'd like to design your own holder for additional module

Lastest version (v2), come with cableties loop with optional brreadboard holder
Lastest version (v2), come with cableties loop with optional brreadboard holder4000×3000 1.25 MB

snapboard-modular-circuit-frame-v0-hba552ewkx5f1
snapboard-modular-circuit-frame-v0-hba552ewkx5f1640×869 87.3 KB

Basic usecase of v1 design (You see how I come up with wires management update), we also have Purfboard for small custom circuit.
Basic usecase of v1 design (You see how I come up with wires management update), we also have Purfboard for small custom circuit.640×480 70.5 KB

Basic concept, we proposed standardized frame and you could download or desgin your own module carriers (Orange)
Basic concept, we proposed standardized frame and you could download or desgin your own module carriers (Orange)640×480 54.6 KB

Final words

Typically, if want to test new concept, new module we use breadboard but it not practical for working prototype, like messy wire that randomly loosen, not support all module or just doesn't look neat. Since many module came in breakout board form, It possible to wire things together with dupont wires, but it just dangling around all over you desk. So I realized I just need the way to hold the modules in place, andI thnk of how convinient of DIN rail system where we can place, replce thing easily. That's how I come up with this Idea.
Only one missing piece is how we will distibute the power (VCC) compare to breadboard. We can either make custom wire the joint together like automotive, or we can make PCB or purfboard with connected pinheaders for this.
Since this is in very early state, I wish we could develope this framework together, if you have access to 3D printer please give it a chance, and feel free to discuss, requesting design or features.

2 Likes
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  • Looks good :+1:

  • Since most breakout boards have mounting holes, this method seems a bit over complicated.

  • Mounting breakouts on standoffs then on a fixture plate (plastic or wood) is more doable for the vast majority here.

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2 Likes
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I am glad to meet you, since we solving the same problems, we agreed that problem is real.
We also share same concept of frame and carrier. The main advantage of yours is it relatively simple easier and possibly cheaper to make since it only 2D design and it quit universal since you just have to align those holes in 2D grid.
For me since I access to 3D printer, I just want to sqeeze the capabillity of compliant mechanism , at some point, I am too lazy to screw and unscrew. many new module also not screw friendly (seem like it was designed for plastic hook PCB holder). my design still not match yours in term of big scale project, like those numpad and LCD, again, nice to meet your and I'm glad to see alternative way to solve this problems.
P.S. Personally, it really satisfied when building snap fit things, if you have accsess to 3D printer, you should give it a try :wink:

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  • I don’t have a 3D printer yet :cry:

  • Great to see how others solve similar problems.
    Lots of examples on this web site showing how people attack a problem in hardware and software.

  • After seeing what you are doing, this link might be of interest to you.

1 Like