EXCLUSIVE - RGB Proton Pack Motherboard Notes (Patreon)

Some patrons have been asking how I went about mounting the 3D printed shell to a motherboard with shoulder straps, etc. I used a fairly common and low-tech method which is based on how most folks mount their movie-style packs. 

The movie packs have an outbound ALICE frame that attaches to an aluminum plate "motherboard".  If you watch the cartoon, you'll notice that the pack straps are embedded right into the back.  Functionally, I felt that the cartoon-style approach would be quite uncomfortable and that it would feel like having a heavy flat-iron strapped to your back. (Of course, if you want something accurate to the cartoon feel free to get creative.)

Not to be dissuaded by a lack of "cartoon accuracy", I was content to go with the tried and true movie-style ALICE + motherboard mounting technique. After assembling my shell, I traced the pack onto some 0.25" hardboard and cut it out. I then sanded, primed, painted, and sealed the motherboard. I opted for a dark navy blue color with a gloss finish - I felt that it went well with my metallic printed parts.

 Here you can see the motherboard in context with the "wireframe" of the shell. The 3D printed shell is secured to the motherboard using a series of off-the-shelf L-brackets, nuts and bolts.  (You may opt to get some bent aluminum trim and tap the holes yourself.) 

I attached ALICE frame is attached to the motherboard using 0.25" bolts, 1" aluminum spaces, and washers. I typically use 3 attachment points on my pack - 2 at the base and 1 towards the top of the ALICE frame's center support.

The ALICE frame bolt/spacer assembly is made up of the following components and assembled as follows:

Finally, here is how my set up looks!