HacnCrap Modular Solar Node Enclosure (Meshtastic / MeshCore)

Key Features:

• Zero Waste & Home Manufactured: Fully 3D printed at home, this design completely eliminates the e-waste associated with gutting and repurposing store-bought solar garden lights.

• Integrated 18650 Battery Slot: The base is designed to accept cheap, standard spring/plate battery terminals directly into the print—no bulky external battery sleds required.

• Custom Weather Sealing: Includes a printable TPU gasket to seal the lid against the elements.

• Modular Slide-On Mounting: The back of the enclosure features a sliding rail system. Print the specific mount you need and slide the core node right on. Note that the mount of choice is secured to the core with an M4 screw. More mounting options are currently in the process of being designed.

Bill of Materials (Hardware):(Note: The Amazon links provided below are affiliate links. Purchasing through them helps support the project!)

• Solar Panel: 5V 110x60mm Photovoltaic Panel (Fits the custom lid recess perfectly). Note that this panel is only 1 Watt.

  • Link: 5V Panels 110mmx60mm

• Battery Terminals: Standard 18650 positive/negative spring plates.

  • Link: 18650 Battery Spring Contacts

• Antenna: Alfa 915 Antenna.

  • Link: Alfa 915 Antenna

• Pigtail: 4 in N-Type Pigtail.

  • Link: 4 in N-Type Pigtail

• Fasteners: M4x8 machine screws (used to secure the lid and the modular mounts).

  • Link: M4x8 Screws

• Your Node Hardware: Because the solar panel is only 1 Watt, I highly recommend going with an nRF-based board for its low power consumption such as the Heltec T1114/T096, Seeed Studio XIAO nRF52840, or the RAK 4631.

  • Link: Heltec T096 Board

  • Link: Seeed Studio XIAO nRF52840

  • Link: RAK 4631 Kit

• 18650 Li-ion Battery: I recommend the Samsung 35E (3500mAh) for excellent capacity and reliability.

  • Link: Samsung 35E 18650 Battery

• BMS (Battery Management System): Some boards may require a BMS for safe charging and discharging.

  • Link: BMS Module

• Note: Ensure you are using appropriate charge controllers/diodes for your specific board and battery chemistry.

Recommended Print Settings: These parts are designed to survive outdoors. For maximum structural durability and UV resistance, follow these settings:

• Material: ASA or PETG for the rigid enclosure parts. TPU 85A for the weather gasket.

• Perimeters/Walls: 4 to 5 perimeters for mechanical strength and waterproofing.

• Infill: 20-30% Gyroid.

• Supports: Grid supports recommended.

Assembly Notes: The battery terminals press-fit directly into the slots in the base. Solder your leads before seating them. The TPU gasket sits in the channel between the base and the lid. You can secure the solar panel into the lid recess using silicone or weather-resistant adhesive to maintain the waterproof seal. Once wired and closed, secure the solar lid and your chosen modular mount to the enclosure using the M4x8 machine screws.