The Comically Overengineered Webcam Case

Features

• Convert any laptop webcam module to a fully-functional, adjustable webcam with the Comically Overengineered Webcam Case!
  

• Choose the best mounting system for your needs with the Ball-head Adjustable Linking System!

  • Based off HD_Creator's Generic Lockable Ball Joint, the BALS features three options:

    • Free-standing ball head

    • Adjustable monitor mount

    • Tripod mount with standard 1/4" screw
      

• Includes a sliding privacy shutter and hole for an LED indicator light
  

• Designed for Dell webcam modules used in several Dell laptops in the last 7 years, but can be easily modified thanks to the included STEP files
  

• Easy printing straight from the STLs: Files are already in the optimal orientation for printing and only one model needs supports

Parts Needed

• Laptop webcam module (up to 55 x 6 x 4mm by default, but this can be modified)

• Micro USB breakout board

• 5V to 3.3V step-down converter (optional: check your webcam's specs to see if this is needed)

• Micro USB cable

• 2x M3 screws (up to 8mm)

• 2x M3 screws (up to 10mm)

Printing guidelines

• Print all models from the root folder and choose one of the mounting options (or print all 3 and swap between them!)
   

• Layer height: 0.2mm
  Supports: bottom_panel.stl only, not needed for any other model
  Brim: No
  Walls: 3-4
  Infill: 10-20%

Assembly

1. Wire up webcam: Convert your laptop webcam into a USB-powered webcam by following this tutorial. Check your webcam's specs before connecting to 5V USB! Some webcams use 3.3V instead and need a step-down converter to avoid burning out.
   

2. Add webcam to main body: Stick the webcam module in the middle of the body, and screw in the micro USB board with 2x M3 bolts (up to 8mm). If using a step-down converter, there is space for this at the top of the case.
   

3. Choose mounting type: Print the nut and ball joint of your chosen stand and insert the nut into the joint (skip this if using the tripod mount).
   

4. Assemble mount: With the nut mounted, screw the ball joint into your mount, optionally securing the thread with a little glue.
   

5. Add bottom panel: Press the bottom panel in through the front of the case - it should be a tight friction fit.
   

6. Snap lens cover into front panel: Press the lens cover into the bottom of the front panel until it fits snugly but can still move. Try printing with different tolerances if it doesn't move, won't go in, or moves too freely.
   

7. Insert white filament (optional): If you wish, add a little white filament into the LED hole in the front panel to diffuse the light.
   

8. Insert front panel into main body: This can be tricky and take a little bit to get right. Insert the front panel into the main body, making sure not to trap any wires beneath it. Then, bend the handle of the lens cover so that it fits in the slot on the main body (printing the lens cover in PETG can make this step easier as it makes it more flexible while also making the lens cover glide more smoothly). Make sure that the lens cover can still be moved back and forth.
   

9. Secure case with M3 screws: Use the remaining two M3 screws (up to 10mm) to join the main body and front panel together. Now screw in your mounting solution, attach a micro USB cable, and the webcam is ready to use!