Introduction ❤️📟

In this project, I redesigned the bottom enclosure of an existing robotic hand model from Thingiverse to improve the internal space for electronics and make the assembly cleaner and more practical.

While building the robotic hand, I noticed that the original enclosure did not provide enough room for the Arduino, DC jack, power switch, and wiring. Instead of forcing the components into the limited space, I designed a completely new bottom case using Fusion 360.

The redesigned enclosure provides better cable management, dedicated mounting positions for the electronics, and easier maintenance access. This project demonstrates how 3D printing can be used not only to create new designs, but also to improve existing ones for real-world usability.

Supplies

Electronics

1. Arduino
2. Servo motors
3. DC jack
4. Power switch
5. Jumper wires

3D Printing

1. PLA+ filament
2. 3D printer

Software

1. Fusion 360
2. Cura / PrusaSlicer

Tools

1. Screwdriver
2. Soldering iron (optional)
3. Hot glue or screws for mounting

After printing and assembling the robotic hand from the original Thingiverse model, I discovered that the bottom enclosure had very limited internal space.

Problems with the original design:

1. No proper space for the Arduino
2. Difficult placement of the DC jack
3. No mounting position for the power switch
4. Tight cable routing
5. Difficult maintenance access

Because of these issues, I decided to redesign the entire bottom enclosure.

Step 2: Designing the New Enclosure 💻

The new enclosure was designed using Fusion 360.

Main improvements added:

1. Larger internal compartment
2. Dedicated slot for the DC jack
3. Separate mounting area for the power switch
4. Better cable routing channels
5. Improved stability and assembly structure

The design process focused on keeping the enclosure compact while making the electronics easy to install and maintain.

Step 3: 3D Printing the Parts 🖨️

After completing the CAD design, I exported the model as an STL file and prepared it for printing.

Print Settings

1. Material: PLA+
2. Layer Height: 0.2 mm
3. Infill: 20%
4. Print Time: ~1 hours

After printing:

1. Supports were removed
2. Edges were cleaned
3. Electronics fit was tested before final assembly

Once the enclosure was ready, I installed all the electronics components inside the redesigned case.

Installed Components

1. Arduino
2. Servo motor connections
3. DC jack
4. Power switch

The new enclosure made the wiring process much cleaner and reduced cable clutter significantly.

After installing the electronics:

1. The robotic hand was mounted onto the redesigned base
2. Wiring connections were secured
3. Power switch and DC jack were fixed into their slots
4. Final testing was performed

The redesigned enclosure resulted in:

1. Cleaner assembly
2. Better stability
3. Easier maintenance
4. Improved usability

This project shows that 3D printing is not only about creating new models, but also about improving and customizing existing designs to solve practical engineering problems.

A small redesign can greatly improve:

1. Functionality
2. Ease of assembly
3. Cable management
4. Overall user experience

Stay tuned for more projects in my 3D Printing & Design Series!

The robotic hand model used in this project was originally created by [grossrc

Ryan Gross] on .

This project focuses on redesigning and improving the bottom enclosure to better fit the electronics and wiring.

Full credit for the original robotic hand design goes to the original creator.

You can find the original model here:

[https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2269115]