This dissertation details the redesign and evaluation of a 3D printer enclosure, with the aim of developing an affordable enclosure that can be partly manufactured by hobbyists using their own domestic printer, and which maintains, or improves upon, the functionality and performance of the Original Prusa Enclosure. Several concepts were designed and evaluated, informed by extensive primary and secondary research, with requirements captured in a detailed specification. Detailed designs, materials evaluations, and prototyping of key components were undertaken iteratively, leading to a new re-designed enclosure using readily available materials, incorporating practical design modifications to address limitations and issues identified with current commercially available offerings.
The functionality and performance of the new enclosure were tested. Findings indicate that the redesigned enclosure performed comparably in maintaining internal temperatures above 30C which is suitable for printing, while offering improved accessibility, reduced build assembly complexity, and at a much lower cost of £175 compared to its competitors at £300. The project demonstrates the feasibility of creating a cost-effective and user-friendly alternative to commercially available enclosures, with potential for further refinement through modular component upgrades.