MiniRack - Miniature Modular Racking System

Purpose

This system was born from a desire to create a way to mount various equipment in a similar way to a conventional 19-inch rack on a smaller scale while still maintaining adherence to as many applicable standards as possible.

Schematic/Dimensions

Dimensioned part drawings have been provided in the images section. The default width and depth of the MiniRack is 8 inches, with the height dependent on the size of rail selected.

Be mindful of the rail clearance when selecting rails for mounting bases. If necessary, adjust the rail clearance as detailed in Customization to accomodate irregular rail thickness.

Relevant Standard(s)

The MiniRack adheres to the vertical spacing dimensions outlined by EIA-310-D. This specification details the way mounting holes are arranged on rack rails and compatible equipment to ensure interoperability.

While the MiniRack's default horizontal spacing has been altered from specification to achieve the goal of a smaller scale, the provided Fusion 360 files include parameters to alter the horizontal scale as desired.

Customization

MiniRack uploads include the source Fusion 360 design files. Dimensions have been meticulously parameterized to allow customization of rack dimensioning. Relevant parameters can be found in the User Parameters area of Fusion 360. Given a sufficiently large 3D printer, a standard 19-inch rack could conceivably be created with minimal adjustment.

Assembly

Rack rails and appropriate mounting hardware will need to be acquired prior to assembly. These can be fabricated as outlined by the specification or purchased from a retailer. When planning an assembled rack, note that the top and bottom rack units will be occupied by the rack bases, leaving the rack with n-2 unoccupied sections for equipment.

Gator Rackworks manufactures a few quality sets and related mounting hardware at reasonable prices and are recommeded for this project. Note that you will need 2 sets (4 rails) for all corners of the MiniRack.

Two rack bases are recommended for stability, one for the top and one for the bottom. Each base will provide a mounting point for the ends of each rack rail. Use mounting hardware appropriate for the rails in use to fasten all sets of MiniRack Base slots to the rack units on the rack rails. Slots were used in the design to allow for horizontal flexibility and prevent strain/tension on the rack rails. Refer to provided images for more information.

Components/Extensions

Feel free to develop and create derivative components. A Fusion 360 template is available for MiniRack plates here, and a dimensional drawing is available as well.