Heltec V3 Meshtastic Case (1x 18650) with rocker buttons

*This is a work in progress.

Context:

I was looking for a case for the Heltec V3 LoRa board to use with meshtastic, and I had pretty much determined the cases by @tonyg were the best option, but I wanted one that could be more weather resistant. This case is a first step towards that. It is designed so that the only openings are situated at the top and can be covered with a TPU insert (not created yet) but still retain button functionality.

The buttons are still operational because they work off a rocker switch that sticks out the top.

Print tips:

• You need two rocker buttons, and one must be mirrored
• Print the front plate face down. A textured bed makes it look nicer

How to assemble:

1. Use pliers to force the rocker buttons into the top of the front plate. A drop of oil helps too.
2. Take the board and put it in the board holder. It should friction fit.
3. Attach the antenna mount to the back plate and tighten it down.
4. Plug the antenna connector onto the board.
5. Put in the battery and connect the leads to it however you can.
6. Friction fit the board holder into the front plate.
7. Plug the battery in.
8. Add some padding (I used crumpled paper) to make sure the battery can't move.
9. Fold the two halves together making sure all the wires stay inside and are not pinched.
10. Fasten the halves together with 3x M2x20 and 1x M2x16 screws/nuts.

I haven't experimented with waterproofing yet but the idea is to put some silicone around the edges of the two halves and make a TPU insert to keep the plug and sides of the buttons covered.