Ender 3 S1 Extreme Close-Up Print Monitor Rig (Webcam PCB Mount)

Summary Tired of checking your 4K CCTV or standard webcam only to find out your print failed hours ago because you couldn't see the micro-details? I had the same issue. This is a rigid, universal webcam PCB mount designed specifically for the Ender 3 S1 to give you an extreme close-up, macro view of your nozzle while printing. Why I Designed This I monitor my office 3D printers remotely from home. Even with high-resolution IP cameras, it's impossible to spot early signs of failure like micro-stringing or layer adhesion issues. Endoscope cameras are a common alternative, but they lack manual controls (you can't turn off auto-exposure or adjust the gain). To solve this, I designed this rig. By stripping a standard webcam out of its bulky casing, you can mount the bare PCB directly to this rig. Since standard webcam lenses are naturally capable of extreme close-up/macro shots, it perfectly tracks the nozzle and provides a highly detailed live feed of the extrusion process. Key Features Universal PCB Fit: Compatible with roughly 90% of standard webcam PCBs once you remove them from their plastic housing. Rigid & Close: Attaches securely to the Ender 3 S1, following the nozzle closely without vibrating. Superior to Endoscopes: Allows you to use high-quality webcams (like Logitech) where you have full control over camera settings. ⚠️ CRITICAL TIP FOR BEST RESULTS To get those cinematic, aesthetic macro shots of your print, you must turn off your webcam's auto-exposure and manually adjust the gain. If your camera doesn't support manual exposure (like the cheap one I initially tested), the results will be washed out. Combine manual exposure settings with a good external light source targeting the nozzle, and the results will be spectacular. Work in Progress & Future Updates This is the initial rigid version. If there is enough demand, I plan to update the design with: Better ergonomics and optimized geometry for faster printing. Minimal framing/angle adjustment mechanisms. Remixing & CAD Files This was designed in Fusion 360. Feel free to use the "STL to Body" tool in your CAD software to modify it to your needs. Remixes are highly encouraged! If I find the time, I will upload the original CAD files here as well. Happy printing!