Home Automation: Smart Relay Control for Your 3D Printer Enclosure

A custom relay switch control box can be a great addition to your 3D printing equipment! For those who enjoy 3D printing and are makers, this project is perfect since it will guide you through the process of building an advanced control system that works seamlessly with your existing setup. By managing key components like lighting, ventilation, and electricity, this relay control box enables you to automate and enhance the enclosure of your 3D printer. Depending on the components you already have, the total cost of this project can vary from $100 to $150.

Materials List

Below is a list of parts needed, including links for purchase.

• Mean Well LRS-100-12 12VDC, 8.5A, 102W Power Supply - Provides reliable power to your peripherals and relays
• Raspberry Pi 4B+ (8 GB RAM) - Controls the relay modules and runs OctoPrint
• Freenove Breakout Board for Raspberry Pi - Simplifies connections to the Raspberry Pi GPIO pins
• 4-Way Relay Module Board (5V) - Controls multiple external devices such as lights and ventilation systems
• 1-Way Relay Module Board (5V) - Dedicated to switching the 3D printer on and off
• Four pairs of 5.5x2.1mm DC jack female and male plugs - Facilitate power connections to external devices, including lights and fans
• 140mm Fan - For cooling the Raspberry Pi, relays and power supply. Any fan will do, but i used the Noctua Redux because of its silent operation
• 26 AWG red silicone wire - For power connections
• 26 AWG black silicone wire - For ground connections
• 5-meter 8-pin ribbon cable - For Dupont connections
• Male DuPont connectors - For the ribbon cable connections
• Pin Housing - For the ribbon cable connections
• M3 brass inserts - To be pressed into the housing for secure fastening
• 5x20mm glass fuse holder - For circuit protection
• 8A Fuse - For circuit protection
• Crimp connectors - For safe connections
• Heat shrink tubing - For insulating connections
• Nylon Cable Ties - For organizing wires
• Screws - Various M3 screws used for mounting components
• 8mm Self-tapping screws - For mounting the fan

Please see my comprehensive Instructables page for a step-by-step tutorial on creating this project. You can effectively build your own relay switch control box by following the thorough directions, advice, and explanations found there. The gudie will take you step-by-step through every stage, from circuit wiring to final assembly, regardless of your level of experience as a maker. You'll get all the knowledge required to design a useful control box for your 3D printing enclosure with illustrations and in-depth explanations.

Disclaimer

This project involves working with electrical components and power supplies, which can be dangerous if not handled properly. Follow all safety precautions and double-check your work. I am is not responsible for any damage, injury, or loss resulting from following this guide. Proceed at your own risk and always prioritize safety.

In this remix, several key enhancements were made to improve functionality and performance. Unlike the original model, which used a lower amp-rated power supply, this version incorporates a reliable 12V Mean Well power supply to ensure stable and sufficient power for all connected components. Additionally, this design integrates the Raspberry Pi 4B+.

This upgraded version also introduces the capability to turn the 3D printer on and off through a dedicated relay. Furthermore, a 140mm fan has been added to maintain optimal temperatures within the control box, ensuring that all components operate efficiently and reliably. 

Everything was designed using my own measurements using Fusion 360.