Need to build a control and monitor panel. Examples?

[dbhosttexas]

Originally Posted by jim2901

You could also 3D print a custom panel (or an entire box). I've done this successfully for a number of projects and the results are very professional. I've used Front Panel Designer https://www.frontpanelexpress.com/front-panel-designer# to design the panels and have a friend print them (also our Library has a 3D printer or you can print them at Print-A-Thing).

Jim

Oddly enough, I already own a 3D printer, a Voxelab Aquilla (cheap one). I have been considering adding the mod kit called the Ender Extender to allow me to 3D print larger objects. Max printing size right now is 220mm x 220mm x 250mm. There is an upgrade kit that is out there that will allow me to print 400x400x500mm although it cost more than the printer itself, mind you the printer + the kit are still way cheaper than many / most 3D printers... So it might be worth it as I have some other objects I want to 3D print that are larger. Thanks for the idea!

[dbhosttexas]

Originally Posted by wmrra13

FYI, The Hella/DIN 12 V power outlets are much more compact and have a more secure connection than the standard cigarette lighter outlet. https://www.amazon.com/Cliff-Top-Mar...-15&th=1&psc=1

Okay THESE I never knew existed. My SMB has one 12v socket that is semi proud from the wall above the kitchen cabinet. I have some massively upgraded USB sockets coming, and ordered these. I believe with these shallow mounts, I should be able to re-use the OE magazine rack, pull it, pull the fabric, make my mount holes, make and attach a cap to keep crap from falling in (or turn it upside down. Attach fabric, most likely new as the OE will get thrashed removing it, reinstall. I have a plan now! Will need to spend quality time with the labeller on those switches though!

[jim2901]

I have shifted to using OpenSCAD (https://openscad.org/) for designing objects I need to be printed. Being programmatic I find it easier to get exact dimensions.
Jim

[dbhosttexas]

Okay here goes again...
The items to be mounted.

3@ 12v power outlets https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1
1@ rocker switch to control on / off for these outlets. Salvaged from the USB port + 12v socket combos. USB ports were sh*t...https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1
2@ dual USB power outlets https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09FDWPM4N...roduct_details
Control / monitor panel for my 3KW inverter.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...e?ie=UTF8&th=1
Battery monitor
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1
1@rocker switch for water pump Another reclaimed switch.
Thermostat / controller for Diesel or Velit Gasoline heater. If I go with the Vevor Diesel I already have this is the controller... https://www.amazon.com/Heater-Contro...e%2C105&sr=1-4

[dbhosttexas]

Okay I have finalized the decision to install on the magazine rack. Making spacers out of cutoff recycled pallet wood that is sucking up space in my shop.

2 individual dual port USB 3.0 chargers with waterproof covers and plastic mounting plate, mounted to the spacer. Need to drill the pilot holes for the mounting screws next.



Rear view of the assembly.



View of the assembly with waterproof covers raised to show the ports, if you look on the right side of each panel, there is a small on / off button, no need to control elsewhere.



Not sure I am going to use any sort of finish on these. If I do, I have a small can of Minwax American Walnut that should be close enough to the factory faux wood finish.

I might just trim the fabric away from the work area and, well make it work. We will see.

[86Scotty]

Just a thought. A majority of small electronics have gone to USB-c/PD type plugs.

-Most Android phones
-Samsung tablets
-Now iPhone
-the little rechargable fans we geek out on around here

You might consider adding at least one. I recently got a couple of these:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...e?ie=UTF8&th=1

[dbhosttexas]

Originally Posted by 86Scotty

Just a thought. A majority of small electronics have gone to USB-c/PD type plugs.

-Most Android phones
-Samsung tablets
-Now iPhone
-the little rechargable fans we geek out on around here

You might consider adding at least one. I recently got a couple of these:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...e?ie=UTF8&th=1

Not the ones I own. Only thing currently in my inventory needing USB C charging is my phone, and my laptop, and that laptop takes 100w... Likely will just run it via the inverter... Which has USB C output.