Print-in-place iPhone 12 case

The print is designed to encase the phone itself. For achieving this, an “interface layer” has to be added to create the encasing geometry. Here's the process:

1. First, print the interface layer and the back cover. Let the build plate fully cool down before detaching the prints (otherwise the thin interface layer can change its shape and will not be useful anymore).
2. Next, print the case. A pause has to be programmed in your slicer to pause the print at the right height (10.55mm) in order to place the cover, the phone, and the interface layer (the attached gcode comes with the pause already programmed). 
3. Once the printer has paused, place first the back cover, followed by the phone, and finally the interface layer. Be careful not to accidentally detach the case from the print bed. The interface layer has to be totally flat, otherwise the nozzle will move it away during the next phase.
4. Resume the print.
5. The printer will continue adding filament on top of the interface layer, encasing the phone. Once the print is done, detach it from the printing bed. All done!

I suggest the next settings:

• Filament: PLA printed great. Good details and bonding. Also, if the case needs to be removed, you can do so by gently applying heat (hair dryer for example). 
• Layer height: 0.15
• Nozzle: 0.4
• Program the pause in your slicer at height 10.55 mm, right before the top lip of the case is printed. 
• Different colors can be added in your slicer at different heights!
• Printing experience is adviced! The user needs to understand how the process works in order to not damage the phone or the printer. 
• Print on smooth sheet. Textured sheets might add volume that will interfere with the tight tolerances of the case.

The final case is the result of 16 design iterations. Please, share a photo of your print!

Bumper version available here.