Ball and socket micro mount for PiCam (or anything)

A compact ball and socket mount designed to hold various objects. This model comes with a holder for a Raspberry Pi Camera module, but it is versatile. You can attach other holders or adapters using an M5x0.8 thread at the end of the rod.

Installation is simple and requires only a single, hidden screw within the socket. I used a button head M4x8mm screw in conjunction with a T-Nut to attach it to a 3030 aluminum extrusion on my RatRig VCore3. However, similar hardware can be used to mount it differently. Just by choosing the appropriate T-Nut, you can mount it on any aluminum extrusion based printer. If your hardware doesn't fit the socket, consider remixing the model to suit your needs.

I have uploaded the STEP files for easier remixing.

It's designed to be small, protrude very little from the mount point and allow a wide range of motion to achieve the desired orientation (in this case pointing the camera to wherever you want).

Printing suggestions

• Material: I used ASA for its thermal resistance (since it's situated within an enclosure), but other than that, you can chose any material you like, as long as you can print the threads fine.
• Layer Height: 0.15mm to accurately replicate the threads. 
• Supports: None required. 
• The ball component may be tricky to print due to its small base and top-heavy design. It may topple over easily if you attempt to print it with the ball upwards. A solution is to print with the ball down and cut about a quarter off the bottom of the ball by positioning it below the bed surface (as illustrated in the accompanying picture).

Tolerances may vary depending on the material and the accuracy of your printer. For instance, while I faced no issues threading the nut with PLA, I needed to scale the nut to 101% when using ASA to achieve a satisfactory tolerance. The fit might be tight initially when you try to thread the nut into the socket.

Please let me know if you use this mount for other purposes to see it in action.

Happy printing!