Introduction: Raspberry Pi Car Mount

I was looking for a way to mount a monitor and Raspberry PI into my car. Nothing online seem to fit my situation so I came up with this 3D printed mount. It uses a 3D printed base, various hardware (screws, standoffs, etc.) and a purchased tablet mount that works in a cup holder. I'm very happy with how it turned out.

Step 1: Tools/Materials

Tools

  • Allen wrench
  • Adjustable wrench

Materials

  • 3D Print (x1)
  • Tablet Mount
  • Monitor
  • Raspberry Pi
  • Power Supply
  • Cables (HDMI, Power, OBD)
  • Raspberry Pi Mount Hardware
    • Hex Standoff, Female - M2.5x19 (x4)
    • Washer, Flat - M2.5 (x8)
    • Washer, Lock - M2.5 (x8)
    • Screw - M2.5x10 (x8)
  • Monitor Mount Hardware
    • Screw - M2.5x20 (x2)
    • Washer, Flat - M2.5 (x8)
    • Lock nut - M2.5 (x4)

Step 2: CAD

I already had the monitor and Raspberry PI. From there, I tossed around different mounting options. Using a purchased tablet mount (cup holder version), I worked out the concept and dimensions in CAD. Once it looked good, I sent the main piece (shown in copper color) to the 3D printer.

Step 3: STL File and Drawing

This step includes the drawing and the STL file for 3D printing. I suggest making it from ABS or another high temperature material since the interior of a car will exceed the PLA temperature limit. All holes are oversized to guarantee fit with the M2.5 hardware.

Step 4: Assembly - Step 1

With the 3D print in hand, I started the assembly. I installed the standoffs for the Raspberry Pi first since these are only accessible prior to monitor installation.

Stackup:

  • M2.5 Screw
  • M2.5 Lock washer
  • M2.5 Flat washer
  • 3D Plate
  • M2.5 Standoff

Step 5: Assembly - Step 2

Next, I screwed the Raspberry Pi to the standoffs.

Stackup:

  • Raspberry Pi
  • M2.5 Flat Washer
  • M2.5 Lock Washer
  • M2.5 Screw

Step 6: Assembly - Step 3

The monitor was then attached to the other side with bolts and nuts.

Stackup:

  • M2.5 Screw
  • M2.5 Flat Washer
  • Monitor
  • 3D plate
  • M2.5 Flat
  • M2.5 Lock Nut

Step 7: Cable Hookup

These connections were pretty straightforward. The cables shown were longer than needed. I did include a hole (not shown) for cable clamp on the side away from the Raspberry Pi.

Step 8: Mounting

These pictures show the mount installed in a extra cup holder. Note the tight spiral in the line. This was required for the tight space in my car.

Step 9: Installation

These pictures show the mount installed in my car - Acura RSX.

Not shown in these pictures is the OBD-2 to USB cable. This was run from the Pi to the OBD-2 connector behind the center console. The power was taken from the 12V power socket and run through a converter to the power supply.

As you can see, I don't have much room in my car but I'm happy with how it fit. The same mounting concept should work better in a full size car or truck.

Step 10: Few More Pictures

Here are few additional pictures of how it turned out. Please let me know if you have any questions.

Thanks for viewing!

Raspberry Pi Contest 2020

Participated in the
Raspberry Pi Contest 2020