As a part of learning the ins and outs of OpenSCAD and CAD modeling in general, I wanted to do something bigger than a switch plate this time around. I thought that 60% keyboards are popular so why not something for those.
I'm very early in progress and will probably have to redo parts later on. Right now I'm just trying to get my idea visible in CAD somehow. The case is inspired by G80-3000, Pearl40%, and CA66. Consisting of three main parts (top, spacer, and bottom) it follows a quite regular case setup. The spacer can be acrylic to show off your RGB backlighting or then you could maybe use some colored metal for a simpler look instead.
The case top is WKL with blockers. Not sure if I should make a regular non-blocked version and an HHKBish version as well. The angle is 4 degrees and the height of the front edge is around 25 to 30mm.
It comes with a top-mounted plate which means you can use any popular 60% PCB with it, or maybe even handwire a keyboard if you know what you're doing. Still working on making the plate more universal.
As the case has loads of empty space at the back, I was thinking of making a USB extension installation hole in there, meaning you can use whatever USB connector on the PCB and whatever USB connector on the case. An older GH60 PCB with USB-C?
Can do! Or maybe you have a sweet coiled MiniUSB cable but would like to use a USB-C PCB with it?
Can do!Things I'm trying to work out:
1. The USB connector thing: how to design a hole that fits all and allows easy screw installation of a USB extension cord such as this:
https://www.adafruit.com/product/32582. Is a simple design (just anodized aluminum with no details) nice or would we like to see some decorations (such as what the MARS 8.0 case has on top)?
3. I need to learn more about CNC machining and CAD in general. How does one properly design screw holes for instance? Or prepare a CAD model for milling and cutting?
4. Details for the case in general. Chamfers, bevels, and such are quite a pain in OpenSCAD in my opinion (even with
minkowski). Maybe I should flip over to FreeCAD or something for the detail work? See 3.
5. Is the case unique enough? Or am I copying my inspirers too much? The spacer and rounded corners scream Pearl40% and the huge paddings look really much like the 3000-case and CA66 case.
6. Is this case interesting enough to warrant a group buy someday? I like it, of course, but are there friendly neighbors who love minimal and bulky stuff on their desks as well?
I'm thinking about calling it the "
SLAB60" or something. It does look like an expensive slab of unworked aluminum right now.
All feedback welcome, along with tips and tricks to make it happen some day. Thanks in advance.