Phantom/QFR/Filco TKL 100% Open Source Acrylic Case

[MOZ]

Uploaded to GitHub: https://github.com/mohitg11/TKL-Case

Compatibility for universal design so far:

Design	PCB	Plate
Phantom	Done	Done
Universal TKL Plate	N/A	Done
QFR	Done	Done
Filco TKL	Done	Done

[CalmB4tehPwn]

I'm very interested in all of this

[MOZ]

I'm very interested in all of this

Can you post a pic of all the internals of ypur QFR, due to the various production batches I am a little confused.

[MKULTRA]

If you do this, make sure the QC is better than ali did on his acrylic case.

Just my $.02

[CalmB4tehPwn]

I'm very interested in all of this

Can you post a pic of all the internals of ypur QFR, due to the various production batches I am a little confused.

Anything specific you want pics of? I think it's the same as the rest, just single sided.

[MOZ]

If you do this, make sure the QC is better than ali did on his acrylic case.

Just my $.02

Which case?

Also please do note this is not just just an IC, it is about creating a universal desing for a TKL case which can be used by anyone.

I might do a GB, but not certain at this point.

I'm very interested in all of this

Can you post a pic of all the internals of ypur QFR, due to the various production batches I am a little confused.

Anything specific you want pics of? I think it's the same as the rest, just single sided.

Was there a smaller PCB that had the mini USB connector or was it on the main board?

[CalmB4tehPwn]

Was there a smaller PCB that had the mini USB connector or was it on the main board?

I have a filco connector on the back of the main board.

[MOZ]

Was there a smaller PCB that had the mini USB connector or was it on the main board?

I have a filco connector on the back of the main board.

Which connects directly to a USB cable?

[jonathanyu]

Was there a smaller PCB that had the mini USB connector or was it on the main board?

I have a filco connector on the back of the main board.

Which connects directly to a USB cable?

i think both of the QFR and filco have the same design on the pcb.

(picture stole from whitefiredragon  )

[Sai]

subscribed to this thread.

[AndyCapets]

Interested.

[badcop]

Was there a smaller PCB that had the mini USB connector or was it on the main board?

I have a filco connector on the back of the main board.

Which connects directly to a USB cable?

i think both of the QFR and filco have the same design on the pcb.

Show Image

(picture stole from whitefiredragon  :blank: )

its almost the same pcb but the QFR has a daughter board for the usb.  Photo credit: dorkvader

[esoomenona]

The connectors on the PCB are the same for the Filco and QFR. The QFR daughterboard for the mini USB port plugs right into a Filco and works. The difference between the two PCBs, and thus, the cases, is the placement of the standoffs and the holes on the PCB to accommodate them. This is why you have to shave them down to put a Phantom or Filco PCB inside of a QFR case (the Phantom was designed to drop inside of a Filco case without any modification).

[dante]

Interested.

Everyone wants a case that weighs 15 lbs - I'm the complete opposite ~ as light as possible.

Found out the Phantom is plate only.  I'm going to stick with the GH60.  Sorry...

Screw that I'm back in! 

[MOZ]

Thanks guys for the pics.

Almost done with the phantom case.

[MOZ]

So got the basic design done. It should work as a standalone case for the Phantom as well as accommodate the Phantom plates and uTKL plate.

For the case w/o the plate, only the top two layers change.

On the case with integrated plstes, it goes without saying that you can have any layout supported by the PCB cut.

For bolting, I would recommend using dome nuts at the bottom and flange nuts/rivet (Yet to decide) on the top sides, and grubs screws in between.

All layers should be 3mm acrylic.



DWG attached.

Feedback for the design is more than welcome and I would appreciate if someone checked the dimensions as well.

[Vintage]

Ahhhhh so many sick things coming from MOZ! Hopefully this takes while so I can save some cash for it!

[jonathanyu]

So got the basic design done. It should work as a standalone case for the Phantom as well as accommodate the Phantom plates and uTKL plate.

For the case w/o the plate, only the top two layers change.

On the case with integrated plstes, it goes without saying that you can have any layout supported by the PCB cut.

For bolting, I would recommend using dome nuts at the bottom and flange nuts/rivet (Yet to decide) on the top sides, and grubs screws in between.

All layers should be 3mm acrylic.

Show Image

DWG attached.

Feedback for the design is more than welcome and I would appreciate if someone checked the dimensions as well.

one thing that need to be aware is that filco plate have bend on the top and the bottom. But the universal plate didn't

[MOZ]

Ahhhhh so many sick things coming from MOZ! Hopefully this takes while so I can save some cash for it!

This isn't a proper IC as such, the first step is to build a basic template design for the most common TKLs.

This however doesn't mean I will not do a GB one the designs are complete.

[MOZ]

So got the basic design done. It should work as a standalone case for the Phantom as well as accommodate the Phantom plates and uTKL plate.

For the case w/o the plate, only the top two layers change.

On the case with integrated plstes, it goes without saying that you can have any layout supported by the PCB cut.

For bolting, I would recommend using dome nuts at the bottom and flange nuts/rivet (Yet to decide) on the top sides, and grubs screws in between.

All layers should be 3mm acrylic.

Show Image

DWG attached.

Feedback for the design is more than welcome and I would appreciate if someone checked the dimensions as well.

one thing that need to be aware is that filco plate have bend on the top and the bottom. But the universal plate didn't

Yes, I am aware of that. The case that I posted is only for the Phantom and soon for uTKL plate only.

Next I'll wok on making it compatible with QFR, and then Filco.

[Nask]

Also interested

[MOZ]

So here is the latest design, very small if any changes.

Haven't had a chance to test rivets/flange nuts.

Again, 3mm acrylic and dome nuts at the bottom, grub screws in between and flange nut/rivet at the top, These are just my recommendations, since the design is available to all, you can do whatever you want .



I have added a compatibility table to the OP, if you have any requests or can help in anyway it would be great.

Any suggested design changes? Can someone please check the dimensions.

If someone knows how to operate a 3D CAD system, can you please layer these as 3mm sheets and post a screenshot, or PM me on how to do this. Thanks!

[BliTzKiN]

Wow! You're really being a hero contributing so much to the community recently! Glad to see people helping out this much around here! MOZ THE BOZ

[MOZ]

MOZ THE BOZ

You read that somewhere? When I started online with the username MOZ, "The BOZ" would be my tagline, and all the trolls said it would never catch on.

[BliTzKiN]

MOZ THE BOZ

You read that somewhere? When I started online with the username MOZ, "The BOZ" would be my tagline, and all the trolls said it would never catch on.

LOL, nope. That just felt really natural to say. Its actually very catchy, MOZ "The BOZ" Acrylic Case! Those trolls be eating their words so hard

[MOZ]

MOZ THE BOZ

You read that somewhere? When I started online with the username MOZ, "The BOZ" would be my tagline, and all the trolls said it would never catch on.

LOL, nope. That just felt really natural to say. Its actually very catchy, MOZ "The BOZ" Acrylic Case! Those trolls be eating their words so hard

Hahaha. Thanks!

[jaynoon]

I'm very keen on this effort, I've just gained access to some acrylic cutting machinery, working on a project like this would be awesome.

I need to do some training to get regular access to the machines, but I don't think that will be too bad.

[MOZ]

Attached design on white BG for anyone having problem viewing the image.

One recommendation I require is, for the PCB and plate cutouts, how much allowance should I have? At the moment I have 1.5-2mm, I think this is too much, and feel that for the plate I should have it .2mm smaller than the plate dimensions, as laser cut acrylic seem to have a very high tolerance, because the acrylic is literally melted at the laser points. For the PCB layer I will leave it as it is.

[MOZ]

This just struck me, and this is thanks to Photekq, how about a small, mini USB extension board around 10 x 15mm that fits right on the edge of the case and works as a extension board for the Filco connector on the QFR/Filco TKL and for the Phantom just like how the ErgoDox has the mini USB from the Teensy to the mini USB connector on the mainboard.

I don't think this would increase costs much either.

[whiskytango]

something like this?

[Photekq]

Make it micro, not mini.

Mini SUCKS!

If I were you I'd do something similar to my TEK-80, just have an area where you can screw in a breakout board that you can buy from the internet.

[MOZ]

something like this?

Exactly that.

Make it micro, not mini.

Mini SUCKS!

If I were you I'd do something similar to my TEK-80, just have an area where you can screw in a breakout board that you can buy from the internet.

To each his own, the problem, I understand what you mean, since the design is opensource, I will do that and not make it to a fixed specification.

[whiskytango]

Make it micro, not mini.

Mini SUCKS!

LOL, I want to go in the opposite direction. I want regular old USB - B Female like this. Nice and fat and sturdy...

I was already thinking as a project and as a way to teach myself some intro to PCB design, I might try to make a breakout board that fits that USB B connector and get some made at OSHpark. Glad to hear that you were thinking this as well MOZ and that your case design will include such.

[SpAmRaY]

Make it micro, not mini.

Mini SUCKS!

LOL, I want to go in the opposite direction. I want regular old USB - B Female like this. Nice and fat and sturdy...

I was already thinking as a project and as a way to teach myself some intro to PCB design, I might try to make a breakout board that fits that USB B connector and get some made at OSHpark. Glad to hear that you were thinking this as well MOZ and that your case design will include such.

I'd buy one off you if it makes it any cheaper gettin the pcb's made.

[MOZ]

I have got dimensions for the QFR/Filco, so I will be able to add support for them later tomorrow, along with some corrections regarding the position of the usb cutout, having the usb cutout on more layers, simpler stab cutout so that acrylic doesn't flex due to thin tabs in the stabs cutout. Also perfect fit cutouts for plates.

I will add support for you to be able to mount mini/micro/B USB breakout boards

[CalmB4tehPwn]

I'm very excited for this. My phantom build will need to utilize it.

Now I just have to find a relatively inexpensive place to source polycarbonate body plates (since the face and back plates will be made by myself.

[MOZ]

I'm very excited for this. My phantom build will need to utilize it.

Now I just have to find a relatively inexpensive place to source polycarbonate body plates (since the face and back plates will be made by myself.

What material will you be using for the front and back plates?

[MOZ]

Redid the design from scratch to better match dimensions, and have a perfect fit with the WFD plates. Also used 8 degress as the tilting angle so different number of feets.

I am however confused over how to have support for mini-usb/micro-usb and usb-b port daughter boards as all have different height, specially USB-B. Maybe have two variants. I will have to just leave some area where you can drill/add holes in CAD yourself depending on what breakout board you use.

Also got measurements for QFR/So should be able to add support for that soon.

Anyone have any other requests

[pasph]

Will you start a GB out of this?

[SpAmRaY]

Redid the design from scratch to better match dimensions, and have a perfect fit with the WFD plates. Also used 8 degress as the tilting angle so different number of feets.

I am however confused over how to have support for mini-usb/micro-usb and usb-b port daughter boards as all have different height, specially USB-B. Maybe have two variants. I will have to just leave some area where you can drill/add holes in CAD yourself depending on what breakout board you use.

Also got measurements for QFR/So should be able to add support for that soon.

Anyone have any other requests

What has a usb-b daughter board?

[MOZ]

Redid the design from scratch to better match dimensions, and have a perfect fit with the WFD plates. Also used 8 degress as the tilting angle so different number of feets.

I am however confused over how to have support for mini-usb/micro-usb and usb-b port daughter boards as all have different height, specially USB-B. Maybe have two variants. I will have to just leave some area where you can drill/add holes in CAD yourself depending on what breakout board you use.

Also got measurements for QFR/So should be able to add support for that soon.

Anyone have any other requests

What has a usb-b daughter board?

Nothing, it was an idea that was floated, so that Filco/Phantom could have have detachable connector. I suggested mini-USB, Photekq suggested micro-USB, and whiskeytango wants USB-B

[whiskytango]

What has a usb-b daughter board?

I don't think anything does...yet. I posted earlier about the possibility of getting one designed since I like the sturdiness of the full size usb. I doubt it would be very popular and I don't think there will be enough interest to actually change the case design to accommodate it.

MOZ, what you might do though as far as mounting holes for the daughterboard(s) is base the footprint off something like this one that I linked to earlier. Then, if anyone wants to create their own with a different connector, they should make the footprint be the same as that one. You could also designate a standard standoff height that everyone should use to mount the daughterboard. Then all you have to worry about is the height of the cutouts in the back of the case to accommodate different size connectors. I doubt there is much of a height difference between mini-USB and micro-USB anyway and those are probably the most common people will want.

edited to fix the link

2nd edit: sparkfun even provides the eagle files for their stuff so you could take the design and modify it without having to start from scratch maybe? I dunno, just starting to try to learn PCB design with the free eagle software. Haven't gotten very far

[SpAmRaY]

Ok makes sense I thought there was another board out there I hadn't seen.

[MOZ]

The thing with breakout board is I doubt anyone will be making their own, since a single PCB is hard to source cheaply.


We can do a GB for a breakout boards, all three options.

[MOZ]

I heard you like full-size keyboards.



Phantom + GHPad

[SpAmRaY]

I just need a phantom case that allows for all keys to be used on the right side.

[MOZ]

I just need a phantom case that allows for all keys to be used on the right side.

Shoot me a PM

[CalmB4tehPwn]

Redid the design from scratch to better match dimensions, and have a perfect fit with the WFD plates. Also used 8 degress as the tilting angle so different number of feets.

I am however confused over how to have support for mini-usb/micro-usb and usb-b port daughter boards as all have different height, specially USB-B. Maybe have two variants. I will have to just leave some area where you can drill/add holes in CAD yourself depending on what breakout board you use.

Also got measurements for QFR/So should be able to add support for that soon.

Anyone have any other requests

What has a usb-b daughter board?

Nothing, it was an idea that was floated, so that Filco/Phantom could have have detachable connector. I suggested mini-USB, Photekq suggested micro-USB, and whiskeytango wants USB-B

I'm totally behind a USB-B daughter board. I'm behind WT on ruggedness. I don't use a desk, so I need something that can survive the rigors of being moved around.

[MOZ]

There is something in the works, a dual sided PCB supporting mini and micro USB on each side, and similarly one with USB A and B on each side.

[Acanthophis]

I skimmed the thread, nice approach.
I'm looking for a phantom case myself and also thought about designing my own.
But I never used a CAD programm in my life.

I just downloaded AutoCAD, but I stopped trying it out. I don't know **** about this programm :/

So, are there any files for phantom cases?