3D-Printed Meshtastic Radios
Overview
Purpose:
Meshtastic is “an open-source, off-grid, decentralized, mesh network built to run on affordable, low-power devices.” The purpose is to have an off-grid means of communication in emergencies or in remote locations where there is no alternative. The software can be installed on a variety of microcontroller platforms. I chose an ultra-low-power SoC that could last several days on a charge, making it a useful tool for remote activities.
Materials:
- RAK19007 Base Board
- RAK4631
- RAK12500 GNSS GPS Location Module
- RAK1921 OLED Display
- 3.7V 2500mAh LiPo Battery
- 915MHz LoRa Antenna
- Momentary Push Button Switch
3D Printing Challenges
Getting the Texture Right
I ran into several issues with under-extrusion, which resulted in cracks/gaps in the top layer. I tried sanding and vapor smoothing it, which gave me even more options to choose from, but some of the cracks were too big and needed to be fixed another way. After printing over 20 faceplates, and logging the result of each with a picture and snapshot of settings in Excel, I finally printed the perfect piece.
Warping
This was my first time printing ASA plastic. My printer doesn’t have an enclosure, which is essential to printing with this type of material. I had to create my own enclosure to insulate the printer, otherwise, the print lifted off the bed and ended up warped.