Prusa Mini Bear Light [Bambu Lab Carbon X1 Inspired]

Wanted to give my mini bear a lighting upgrade and came up with a printed “extrusion” that wraps around the inside parameter of the x-axis 2040 uprights. Somewhat reminds me of the lights on the inside of the Bambu Lab Carbon X1 but better…

Couple upfront warnings before you get started. I have this light running off of my raspberry pi [octoprint server] that is mounted to my printer. Its plugged into one of the free usb ports. This may work powered from the USB port on the printer but I haven't tested that. The lighting system does not eat into the x axis movement but does appear to take up 2-3mm on the z axis. Since I gained some z-height with the bear upgrade its easy for me to give up a portion in exchange for a sleek lighting system. 

Print Settings:

Filament - PETG [PLA may work but snaps will be more rigid and may break]

Infill - 15% Gyroid Infill

Orientation - I recommend printing the model either on its side or back rather than on its ends to ensure the snaps are able to deflect. Printing on side is preferred to keep consistent layer lines through all four pieces. [my parts shown are printed on the back and the change in layer line orientation bothers me]

Supports - Yes

Parts - 1x each corner, 2x legs

Hardware:

M3x6mm Bolts [14pcs] - Link

M3 2020 T-Nuts [14pcs] - Link

5V Silicone Light Strip [6500K] - Link

I also did wire up the light to a switch on the side of my printer to give it more of a finished look. If you don't feel comfortable going this far with the mod the light strip linked does have an inline switch. The switch housing file can be found here - Link

Switches [1pc] - Link

Assembly:

This is pretty straightforward I like to snap the pieces together. Then preinstall each t-nut and fastener, just a few threads so the t-nut can still spin but stopping the fastener from falling out. Line up the printed assembly with the 2040 x-axis extrusions, such that the t-nuts can slide into the 2040 extrusion. Secure each fastener along the printed extrusion. Proceed to push light strip into installed parts, starting from the wired end. Once you get to the opposite end trim excess light strip such that the strip is snuggly wrapping the entire parameter. Plug in usb and let there be light!

I really have enjoyed this upgrade and hope you do to, Happy Printing!!