sorry, i haven't updated this in a while (or the OP ever, it looks like), but here's what's going on:
1) new case project is mostly stalled. i ave a number of ideas but need more CAD help
2) i have been gathering old and new SSK parts for a number of months. I have a stash of boards that I am refurbishing, and using the opportunity to build a more or less repeatable manufacturing process and specification for SSKs.
3) as i said, i can build new completely working internal assemblies out of brand new parts from unicomp. unicomp has been working with me on sourcing these, but i am still working out the construction kinks. the original IBM design-for-manufacturing is ingenius, but does not translate as cleanly and uniformly to construction-by-hand as one would like.
4) a crucial part of the manufacturing process is converting 104-key membranes to 84-key membranes. i have two ugly ways to do so and have proofed both methods to build working assemblies. however, i am looking for a more elegant method, and have some more ideas that i'm trying out.
now the important part: how can you help? first, in the coming weeks i will be selling some prototypes. these will be functional, refurbished SSKs that have a weird quirk or two. each board will come in an original IBM SSK case, but will have some combination of new and old internals. the reason i will be doing this is to fund case prototyping, so i will be asking a little over market (although there hasn't been much of a supply of SSKs lately, frankly).
second, i need help in the following areas: CAD work, laser cutting (acrylic or thin alum sheeting), 3d-printing, possibly some 2-axis cnc time. as always, let me know if you can help with this and won't flake.
thanks dudes!