01 Background

My computer workstation setup at Worcester Polytechnic Institute in 2014 featured a 3-monitor configuration with a 3D printed laptop stand. Using Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapters, MDF board construction, and RGB LED accent lighting, I created an ergonomic and efficient workspace. The 3D printed brackets improved airflow by 4-7°C.

02 Photos

Evolution of the workstation setup.

Here I'm printing out 90-degree right angle brackets. These have 2 Mounting screws into the wood surface as well as 1 central hole. Same brackets are used on my Mendel90 and Outdoor Stereo Project

3D Printing Right Angle Brackets

Brackets for Laptop Closing-Edge

This is a picture mid-print on the Rear Angled components. You can see there is approximately a 20% Plastic to 80% Air ratio for infill. This conserves plastic while maintaining most structural integrity.

Mid-Print — 20% Infill for Structure

After measuring the separation of the rubber grommets on the bottom of my computer, I placed the first pair of brackets onto the Medium Density Fiber (MDF) Board. I use MDF for a lot of my projects as it has a very high manufacturing standard for being very straight.

First Bracket Pair on MDF Board

All 4 Brackets are in place. The front two prevent the laptop from falling forward, while the back two elevate the rear of the computer for better airflow, and centering my computer screen with my external monitors.

All 4 Brackets in Place

Laptop was placed on the brackets, and everything looks great! The Laptop Screen now sits in the middle of the other monitors creating a nice panorama effect at eye-level.

Laptop on Brackets — Panorama Effect

Here you can see the increased elevation of the laptop which allows more airflow underneath it. This has directly contributed to better performance on my machine. I was measuring 4-7 Degrees Celcius in normal conditions and slightly higher frame rate.

Elevated for Better Airflow

Here you can admire the centering of all the monitors. I measured everything out in AutoCAD to find the optimal height to print the rear brackets. The backlit keys are also more aesthetically pleasing where visible at an angle as opposed to flat. Speakers also sound better slightly angled towards the user.

Monitors Centered at Optimal Height

I added some RGB LED's behind the display to span past the edges of the screen, which makes the lighting a little easier on your eyes and make for nice accent lighting.

RGB LEDs Behind the Display

Another perspective.

Everything cleaned up with lights on. My Desk is also terraced so I can store my keyboard and mouse underneath so I maintain desk space for paper-work or books.

Finished Desk with Terraced Storage