Project: Alien Hospital

[_ferry_]

Buttons seem to work fine by now.
I made a new button panel, divorced the q-touch circuit from the display circuit (with his own power supply, to filter voltage spikes) and mounted it in the display.
He can even register my finger when having it 1-2cm above the sensor itself, so i can tweak that with other capacitors. Because they should only switch when really touching them. Once i fit the leds sensitivity could change.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/CjqLAfOKYIHIyG12cDrX49Un/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/sPHnbiZpumhqSfLkmbGnCAs2/full.jpg
The new buttons. I routed some acrylic away between the buttons to fit the metal wire.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/yx5Ee8HuevUTdu8gdrlmJo5D/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/RFfqM8OuTC71tLSUxF53wWLz/full.jpg
A view from the other side

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/clrnSb6BOOrwgjX873A4heIJ/full.jpg
What's that?

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/8JALojCNVCCA4hum9VMy56vE/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/7SDkHws4htYPz5VrRzlGjCvS/full.jpg
It was the rough cut for this part. A small acrylic strip, which can light up :) Good for details :smoker:

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/qHV0gDGgiskfJgd2XIDKg72e/full.jpg
Now with the tape removed.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/D6FLGqnIY8e2zGVeZ0T34Bcb/full.jpg
Getting the displays ready to be painted :) (black, to make them less visible)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/1nwjXLeU2iqsyMjJB0ZlhsvC/full.jpg
The DVD/cardreader bezel.

Next things:
- painting the displays
- mounting them
- programming their functions (they share the same program/symbols ATM)
- mounting the LCD panel
- figure out which connections should be made from the PC to this case (USB, power, various power/data signals etc. So i can order cables & connectors for it.)

[_ferry_]

Ahhh, picked up some hardware at cooler master yesterday, and i can't resist showing it, since i;m so happy with it 8)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/blW1n3z102KU5p9XzLR8RIYK/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/QttqBMeosObzPfM17S9M6Q5D/full.jpg
Freaking 1000watts of modulair power :eek: Overkill in fact, but who cares :D Will be used in this mod offcourse.

Oh, and the case I've been following since his first prototype:
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/lbbCFSX0BLUNlHfOD1TkXMhz/full.jpg
The cosmos. Currently in the state of light dissemble and creating ideas for it.

[jdbnsn]

http://digg.com/mods/Re_Project_Alien_Hospital

[_ferry_]

I have to admit: I've never visited digg.com, so i just did. Its nice creating content by user input :) Just want to say that the updates from the last days are great (chatroom, awards etc. ) Thanks for that :)

[BlaeceAelf]

If you are still looking for metal that has been engine turned (the circular pattern aluminum you were looking for), I can tell you how to make it on your own. Using your Proxxon micro-mill, you need to chuck up a piece of hard cylindrical rubber (or you can use a pencil with the eraser end down). The end that will come into contact with the metal should be flat (you can flatten it on your own by running it against a piece of sandpaper first if necessary). You then need to coat the rubber end that will contact the metal with valve grinding compound (you should be able to get this at any decent auto shop, or online). You then just run the rubber cylinder/eraser against the metal at around 100-200rpm (or whatever works and won't cause the rubber to spiral out of control and that won't spray valve grinding compound all over you and your shop). You then want to move your x-y table over by about 3/4s to 5/8ths the diameter of the rubber or eraser you are using. When you move down to your next row (by the same fraction of the diameter you were moving over on the horizontal), you will get a better pattern if you alternate the spirals so that they are staggered by the diameter of your tool (search for Engine Turning or Jeweling on google and you will find an image of how the pattern should look). If you have any questions, feel free to PM me and I'll help out where I can.

--BlaeceAelf (aka. Wintermute)

[_ferry_]

Thanks, that information is very usefull!
I havn't really been looking for it, i'm shure there are some shops where i can order it. Or else, i can try your way ;)

[Tempest|2k7]

wow dude. i just looked and read through all 26 pages. it took an hour and a half.
best hour and a half i've had this week.
AMAZING mod.
and SICK parts dude.
I wish i could get sponsored for anything. haha
+rep!

[_ferry_]

Woah, i had some busy times. Offcourse i took a break to build the cosmod casemod. But even after that i was short in time. But past week i managed to spend some time on the power buttons. I mounted the displays beneath the touch buttons:
zTg6uICP6ss

[The boy 4rm oz]

Mate those look fantastic. +rep for you

[b4i7]

now thats just AWESOME _ferry_!

[|NQ|Squelsh]

Those switches are so damn cool!!

[jdbnsn]

you are a genius, pure and simple.

[Franklin]

Very very cool. You combine your electronic skills with your designing skills. Great stuff.

[p0Pe]

thoose switches... man!... DAMN..... holy crap they look so awsome!!!! amazing skills!

can only give you 1*rep sadly! xD... cant wait to see the whole thing finished !

and that psu:P.. whuuuah

[Bopher]

Even my wife who calls 3xNES the "nerd project" thought those were cool. +rep

[BigJohnson]

Man, that is awesome. Are you going to make a tutorial on how you did those buttons? Maybe with a supply list? I think one of those will come in handy this summer.

[_ferry_]

I'll try to work something out for that. That will be "reverse" engineering, since i don't have real schemes for it :P Only some simple ones to know the stuff i usually forget.

[_ferry_]

Long time no see, but after some other projects (building a special bicycle, wooden toys for my sisters child, modding my bedroom etc.) I'm back on the alien :) Did +/- 20hours of work the past month, so i hope to serve a nice update this weekend.

[SXRguyinMA]

insane my friend, +rep :D

[DonT-FeaR]

i need to start reading... havent seen this one.

[The boy 4rm oz]

Fantastic news ferry. I can't wait to see more of this mod.

[Eclecticos]

Welcome back man! :up: Long time no see.
I've been waiting for an update on this one for a while.
Can't wait to see what you have to show us.

[_ferry_]

Between this update and the previous one is a large gap of time, i know :D I worked on project Cosmod, and various other non-casemodding related projects. Like maintainance on my bicycles, work, and some electronic projects.

Anyway, i picked up the work on this project, but now on a different part: The operation table itself. I have a lot of work done on the monitor/instument panel part, but to finish it, the computer itself must be finished, since ther are a lot of connections from the pc to the monitor part (USB, VGA, rs232, power and signals for read out or controlling lights and cooling.

The base exist of a aluminium box, with the table on top. The table will be 40x80cm width, the box is 35x40cm and 32 cm in height. Just enough to fit a standing motherboard.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/XNCTRX8uJ5jj56v8zXASF1Qi/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/PfUZ99XnuRTyFMfZkE8pYT7A/full.jpg
On each corner i'll fit such a aluminium profile. I first planned just the normal aluminium profiles, but these look better. I still use those standard profiles, but they're on the inside of the case now for strength.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/4cbSkmmqO96CpOOAT6slCux3/full.jpg
cutting out another 2 of them

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/JXR8m0pwa2X7MYSRmy8BC1nb/full.jpg
4 of them :D 2 are polished, 2 are sanded.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/Eq1XRXZu7T79Bcj8oZDPMA9N/full.jpg


http://tweakers.net/ext/f/PHvs6pDTzFTcgk82vVmWw7ao/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/6rHLGEhzd6nr64EoM6BnvE9t/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/WumGBwTsd5Djpvt6CILOKHJp/full.jpg
My plan is to have a little gap between the case and corner, giving some extra depth. Maybe some led's will fit there.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/0LSK3qVMExpREOQPQBVSICG2/full.jpg
Another great part, a air grill which can be closed.
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/VpXhK94uFDITLLrtoDfkMXKP/full.jpg
And here i was measuring where to put the 2 radiators. Guess 2 of them are enough for cooling the system.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/MCWKZtAdeQejylhciSsxXMcJ/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/cl5srenuZrkAjJuhpo90zSfE/full.jpg
Pointing out where to fit it.

n9jDySu6Xtc
Demonstration of the grill. I had to do some of it by hand since i don't have the circuit yet to rotate the motor in 2 directions, but the idea is clear, isn't it?


http://tweakers.net/ext/f/hE88XLhsF35YhIqmNkskHpQh/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/Dm18NGtpzTY6AxcpHXZnt9cy/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/Ti9LcP8IHDSQW9NCorEiUPez/full.jpg
Fitted in the case. Note the HDD-size screws. Those will be replaced later with nice looking m3 bolts+nuts, i ordered them this week.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/n0jz2bOVOtdBXnTrAaEdiA00/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/1z7yjyom6goYLzrArVUzRJ0Z/full.jpg
Working on the radiators and fans. I like the grills because they are shiny, but i'll try to build something myself based on RVS wire. A more open design with aluminium fans i guess.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/CI11coV1oqmZET2RpHs52z2M/full.jpg
I wanted to add a logo. On top a sheet of polished aluminium with a hole cutted out. Behind that cut-out the black aluminium with a engraved or sandblasted logo.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/tCdSlNNXhJdewkRpex7Ezfyr/full.jpg
The planned position for the logo

[The boy 4rm oz]

This is looking seriously sweet mate. Well worth the wait.

[985323]

looking great, love the grill

[Ebio Amisi]

one of the most talented mods i have ever seen, sir, your are astounding

[DonT-FeaR]

i like....need update again :)

[phen0m]

Awesome. I can't wait to see the finished mod.
So far, its pretty schhweeeeet

[Kumo]

Long time since my last post... Very nice _Ferry_, as usual.

[_ferry_]

Thanks guys good to hear you still like it :)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/wLu85Pm0YWNvttBxXcipC6lz/full.jpg
I continued with the logo, instead of engraving i went to cutting them out. Thanks for the designer of these 360 degrees cutting saws, you can even cut these small letters with the greatest precision.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/7kABqOIfRpdTC2WZYwgugPDm/full.jpg
But it took about half an hour to get it like this, and more time to cut away the remaining aluminum and sand it a little bit.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/jxJbgp8ueFpn2o3l8OxCBPJ3/full.jpg
After a little polishing fitting the stuff on the case. It's ain't easy to get 6 holes all straight trough 4 layers of aluminum. But there's some toleration.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/QjjRRcNAu8tgQSGlnJPJwnSL/full.jpg
New M3 bolts and nuts and washers arrived. Been looking around that webshop for ages to find RVS M3 nuts, but all they had was countersunk, well, whatever, you ain't gonna see them anyway.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/dfA3CM1OMerviaSOyccCpIc7/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/aGftgEWWer4sVDUpYqxgpohC/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/m6w204bcqRmMGhfrfWQ0zrtN/full.jpg
Let's screw this stuff ;) Mounted the aluminium corner.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/qjKRVC2ThOYpxtLnz0sjAbGc/full.jpg

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/kfFFcGxrbnthlSSzurbCOhzH/full.jpg
Previously the case was just 4 walls, without a bottom. Let's change that.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/VjnjQvdcqtk5b03UGVGkwbVa/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/0BtoltHcRaVVAtp7eOoIyosx/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/mYxflCSoS42VbLt1e7KshL9N/full.jpg
In the bottom plate i made 4 small gaps, the aluminum profiles will fit there. In fact the bottom is hanging in those 4 profiles, just a few mm above my desk. I think some polished aluminum behind the bolts will look better than just direct on the case.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/6E5XLYfEhS8pa4bbA49u7qMF/full.jpg
And a overall shot.

[The boy 4rm oz]

WOW. I love how you cut the text out of that strip above the motorised grill. Very nice attention to detail.

[DonT-FeaR]

yea....tb4o i agree
stupid question... whats it say ???

[_ferry_]

Thanks :) It says "alien hospital" ;)

[The boy 4rm oz]

It says Alien Hospital.

*EDIT*
Double post lol.

[mittelmeier]

I can't believe I only found this build last night. Awesome work so far. +rep

[DonT-FeaR]

i guessed that it said that but wanted to make sure...

[blueonblack]

Damn! (Yeah, that pretty much says it.) +rep!
________
Ford Motor Company Of New Zealand History (http://www.ford-wiki.com/wiki/Ford_Motor_Company_of_New_Zealand)

[_ferry_]

Did some work on 2 CO2 tanks, i think those are fine to act like medical gas tanks.
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/ZFHG5007LysJhJdXtsWTfrBw/full.jpg
I started with these holders, nice, but i wasn't able to find a proper way of fitting the tanks into them.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/4NPCjdi9ITTj17g3WB4UiEGI/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/IWH6Qr7nxse6Jc9oaJKFJ9uW/full.jpg
So i made new ones, holding both tanks together.
Some plastic, a thumbscrew, black tubing, bicycle brake hose and a bicycle-valve-closing-cap-whatever-you-may-call-it made a nice valve/connector for the tank :)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/GdAWagVvn6IFC18Jnjpiq1CH/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/32mExnai2wt69bG7iUJOZTeE/full.jpg
A picture after building another valve, and finishing the plastic holders. Note that they're unpainted now. I think some black paint will do fine for them :)
You can fasten the tanks with the bolt in the center of the holder.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/3ikT93BeGZWakyiqXUamYfjt/full.jpg
Something for the next update: motherboard tray.

[The boy 4rm oz]

WOW man, detail +1. +rep for the awesome tanks.

[DonT-FeaR]

detail is the key man...

you have the key

[mittelmeier]

That just looks amazing. Awesome attention to detail. +rep

[SXRguyinMA]

LOVE THE IDEA FOR THOSE TANKS! +rep

[Frenkie]

Love the tanks, good work !

[Vital]

Just wanted to say that this is currently one of my favorite mods, and I am itching for an update.

[jdbnsn]

Just wanted to say that this is currently one of my favorite mods, and I am itching for an update.

I second that, Alien Hospital has been one of those epic builds that everyone loves. _ferry_'s crafting skills have made the project all the more appealing.

[The boy 4rm oz]

I second that, Alien Hospital has been one of those epic builds that everyone loves. _ferry_'s crafting skills have made the project all the more appealing.

+1

[SXRguyinMA]

+2

[rendermandan]

I can't figure out why I haven't seen this worklog before. This is turning out really great! Good job with the metalwork!. +rep

[Matthew]

I, too, and dying for an update... I love the buttons.

[_ferry_]

Thank you very much guys! My modshop was very messy, so instead of modding i spend some time on cleaning the **** up and spend some time on other projects. (some LED lightning for our home) But here's a update, got the basics of the motherboard tray/backplate done:

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/yAaVBI3NY4I7lZDJ5SOXH55a/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/1PS7TBniDq9qw6flVUIc78al/full.jpg
The backplate came from a donor offcourse. A a.c. ryan acrylic case.
It's not the same shine as chrome or polished metal, so i might better paint it black.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/TpT6l0NnsmLLjvJFVpjTI3g0/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/yFYii8dt8VZoRcFkzg3PepEY/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/FzFQEEF4tuaot8LbvZDpaAVU/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/ViEsqQi3XQ3VgnHgQdT7OUNR/full.jpg
Fits well :)

Note there is only a little space between motherboard and the top of the case. But there is plenty of space on the side of the motherboard for cables and water tubes. Maybe even a ps1 display will fit in this part. But first i'll return to the co2 tanks, to get them fit in the side of this case.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/DqIQXNafeza2uZNlg5Qqy6Ah/full.jpg
Mounting of the motherboard tray.

[SXRguyinMA]

Lookin Nice, Cant Wait To See More

[The boy 4rm oz]

Well, you have been busy. This is really starting to take shape, keep it up.

[DonT-FeaR]

my net is insanly slow atm so only have the pics loaded... but from what i can see nice work man

[DaveW]

I love this project. Keep it coming bro.

-Dave

[_ferry_]

Hi guys!
I'm not dead, neither the casemod, but i had so much other projects to do that this mod had a lower priority. (airbrushing my bike for example.
But i had some time the past week, so i finished the gas tanks. Sorry, but i ain't got any in-progress pics of it. More pics soon or later.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/usL5JWhJNFhqwNHU3JLeeBh9/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/4dns80WfTlhK7E1irOGE770q/full.jpg

Looks dangerous right? I'll ad 2 small biohazard logo's on the tanks when i have some glue for it :lick:

[DonT-FeaR]

wow that looks really nice mate.. keep up the good work

[The boy 4rm oz]

Your right mate, it does look dangerous, and pure awesome. +rep

[Kumo]

Cool details, really nice. I like them very much.

[a.cowen]

CO2 chargers was a stroke of genius. +Rep.

[_ferry_]

Hey guys, i got a large update for ya:

I wanted a addition to the chassis, at the right side of the motherboard, something techie, this is where i cam up with:


http://tweakers.net/ext/f/SNGgSy3dVtulRHAi7hhjxowp/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/SNGgSy3dVtulRHAi7hhjxowp/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/tbg6q9KbGk8EZMTPwjO319A1/full.jpg
The PCB's are placed with a spacer in between. Note that behind this piece holes should be created for cables and air circulation

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/m9PGOsmAFTb4ghVFi3AuFU7n/full.jpg
I stole some PCB material from a old GF 4200TI videocard. 1 of my first videocards, killed by some heavy cooling/OC'ing ;)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/yodOmBNbh7anqDVXkSwjK2I8/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/mz1DxTnaTBO2JlM4em44VU2t/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/bJOEMP3merYFdELZg1kJ2KPA/full.jpg
The result.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/VY0OlkCsbgDrU8cTWjwzSIiX/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/QOUlJTz1haZ0CAXy840nZTzy/full.jpg
Meanwhile i ordered some WC'ing stuff, a extra radiator, hose, hose connectors, 2 fan's and a Laing Pump.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/us0EHAkcAJEWDbJJR8AN4hW4/full.jpg
Let's mod it :P

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/V1tuCcGK5chUgDDK5NA4Cz9X/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/F6mnFtpV5UyRDvIWzl8GGm9N/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/j41Rm1kNUp8ihA0jVU2i4hpL/full.jpg
Checking out dimensions and lay-out....

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/CrCfRxaHWfdj3e1fG5kUS5kp/full.jpg
To end up with this. 4 small holes, 1 for pump, 1 for a "controller" and the 2 larger ones are for flow indicator and reservoir.
The same design will return at the sidepanel, acting as a window.
PS: do you see the missstake i've made? I'm thinking how to cover it up.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/ms9FWoyEsR0vz8FumI6TN3dZ/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/ljLep0WH36ulOkx2ELiGxs4X/full.jpg
I already drilled some holes in the acrylic top, but now i need to remove some acrylic to ensure a good fit.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/E0JPT6DKlyI4HFqJdZDoi9Tu1/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/CxLmYMGoY8PovhOlWLSOhwwm/full.jpg
This is the reason why. Without milling the acrylic top the aluminum sheet on the left couldn't fit behind the window.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/cyYdriV09wSmEqiuA7gMTsUt/full.jpg
Yeah, it still fits ;)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/dGApM3pjjpfcvtB2jEjSUwRQ/full.jpg
Mounted 1 fan because i wanted to see how it looks. I'm working on a aluminum ring to get rid of the empty space around.

But i'd better keep my mind on the watercooling, because i ordered some acrylic as well:

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/DofnQGJns5FvQtq3vh8jJwTp/full.jpg
Building the reservoir and flow sensor.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/OOpJr7AUkpPf1wvUOogn4A6p/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/wK1Zzvpn9GYZocLLCqySr92M/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/jJxmhiZcjJ4GsJUIn10J5kfC/full.jpg
Which fit's here.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/7TQuYpA4t3kOyXLQapZnvAOR/full.jpg
And these acrylic tubes are for the next update

[The boy 4rm oz]

WOW, what an update, everything is looking fantastic my friend, very awesome work. Excellent work on that cover next to the mobo, I have a 4200TI laying around, mine works though lol. The rear panel is also looking fantastic, should look amazing when finished, and yes I can see your mistake, the extra hole you drilled ;). I can't wait for more mate, this is one of my all time favorite mods.

[OvRiDe]

Glad to see some progress! Great work as usual, looking forward to the next update!

[gaz_the_chav]

Awesome! Love how clean and shiney those fans look!

-gaz

[_ferry_]

Thanks guys!

Worked on the acrylic tubing and the flow indicator yesterday and today.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/AkZpQfPo3OpShv58qvWfM6t3/full.jpg
First i started with a extra connection for the hose connector. I didn't want to make the G1/4 threat in the flow indicator directly, this makes it stronger and fail safe: If it would break, then my flow indicator wouldn't ;)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/oHqEsGU6A65TIuwnkzW3qHTk/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/nenSVu0xRsH8RdyZsSD2DNDH/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/5DsICVPEJnoKaGFnHh13Aouw/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/8VfAU2M32F5XlraqHqi9VPBh/full.jpg
Creating the first flow indicator. First? Yeah, it ain't that easy so this is more like a test. Just testing and being creative ;)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/gJMapZvdBom15wHrnpyGVBMK/full.jpg
FAIL!
Modifying the acrylic adds a lot of material stress. So when gluing it together it's starts cracking.... Test ;)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/7ZbRDeGW3acyWvWhczgsJlYK1/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/e3kB0EA679ZB2WdKyBHD2jI6/full.jpg
This one makes it more clear.
Also glue fumes in the drilled hole adds extra cracks.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/GW9auCJafERUEvTYWGtZisgm/full.jpg
But i took this saw and made some new ones, a sharp blade and the automatic water cooling removes any material stress.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/Z9v7arT6gStud3GbitghgV04/full.jpg
All that's left is some snow-like dust.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/mxVFIU779nB6OrF45brS9DZ5/full.jpg
Look! No cracks!

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/MnchuAeZ7hRdZYejB3GZERIT/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/tj37Y7KyLuImEe5GnJQwB7li/full.jpg
Off course the flow indicator needs some kind of guiding rail. To fit it, and being able to remove it (for tuning the weight of the indicator) i want to clamp it in 2 small centered holes.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/FcoPNNlxNcbS7QAXWS5J2Tlt/full.jpg
Dremel to the rescue.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/Od6FQwdyI2hiALq7jkmTTOm2/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/YcNoCOrzofKCSVZyf7MZLmJ8/full.jpg
I'm glad that acrylic is flexible, i can clamp it between the 2 centering holes, 2 rubber rings are attached, not knowing if i need them anyway.



I want you...
To let me know which design is the best.... I've made 3 basic indicators, red, green, and a double sided black one.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/mZbbIPdCuYTKdMmg8RGHs6Zw/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/0xgTVLFCA3oNv45XJELuAVqi/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/TCsnCCOnrDwM0B4i4Q53zgJn/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/E6zXact4KQBOCPbXJESdfLi6/full.jpg

Off course they're unfinished. The red one is polished, but 20mm wide, it should be a bit less to prevent it touching the walls. I can do that after drilling a hole in the center. Need to take them to my work for a good centered hole.

And after that i can add some details as well. Maybe drilling 4 holes from top to bottom, maybe even with a angle that could make the indicator spinning around. (not 100% sure it's gonna work)

So let me know what kind of color, or other suggestions, would be nice to build this case together with TBCS ;)

[p0Pe]

i dont really understand how the flow indicator is going to be put together :/ but IMO the red looks best.
how about 2 peices of clear, with red in the middle and in the ends?

great work in the other update:D

[The boy 4rm oz]

Those are really really cool, I can't wait to see how they turn out.

[_ferry_]

i dont really understand how the flow indicator is going to be put together :/ but IMO the red looks best.
how about 2 peices of clear, with red in the middle and in the ends?

great work in the other update:D

I'll try to explain:

Water comes in from the bottom of the acrylic box. And goes out on top.
This will create a flow and due to the design the flow at the bottom is higher then the flow at higher point. So if the indicator has the correct weight/resistance he'll be hanging somewhere in the middle of it.

On the shaft in the middle I'll fit one of the indicators. Without the shaft he won't be hanging in the middle of the flow but floating all around in the box. That's why i need to drill a hole trough the center of the indicator.

My only concern about red is that red is quite dark. On photos there's a lot of light, at the casemod there won't. So red would be almost black.

[brinkz0r]

I just noticed I missed a lot of progress here, looking very good. I'm also anxious to see how the flow indicator will turn out, it sounds inventive :)

[_ferry_]

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/Buev6AfQaLk5ygvgQgq9UHcK/full.jpg
Do i need to explain how [insert nasty words here] i'm feeling?
I just drilled the last 3 holes for in/outlets, and offcourse, at the last damn hole the drill took a bite into the acryl.
I made special blocks to prevent this when tapping the g1/4 threath, and it has never happened before, and now..... :twisted::evil::dead::mad:

I can cut off the res from the flow indicator and try to glue on a new one. But i don't know if i can hide the junction between reservoir and flow indicator.

[Mark_Hardware]

Just came accross this project and wow is it awesome! Fantastic work.

And in answer to your question.....
Well I'm partial to red personally, but for this build, i definitely think green is the way to go. the black may be a little hard to see, since the background will be black. Plus, I spotted a green fan in one of those pictures a while back.....

[The boy 4rm oz]

Man that really sucks about the res, ai hope you find your way around this problem.

[_ferry_]

I just tried some drilling with a modified drill, after reading and applying this:
http://www.plasticsmag.com/features.asp?fIssue=Sep/Oct-01

It works better, I'm able to drill 11mm without the need to drill by steps ( starying with 3+7mm, and after that 11 mm)
No chance of chipping/cracks. At least that's what I've expected by now.

Only thing is that he needs more cooling. But who cares. There's plenty of water over here ;) I also changed the speed from 500 to 900 rpm, according to the table listed on that website. It doesn't matter if i press soft or hard on the press drill, it works. Only the end need some care not breaking the last few mm.

I wish i could buy some pre-modified drills. But i think they're hard to get. Does anyone know a brand or whatever?

[Mach]

You might try a brad point bit. Not sure what they're called in the NL but I could buy them in France and the UK at any DIY. The look like this: http://www.woodcraft.com/EnhancedImage.aspx?ProductString=146620.jpg&NameCode=146646

You can buy plastic bits in the US from Craftics; not sure who carries them in Europe. Here's the link to craftics. http://www.craftics.com/products.cfm?Category=87 You may find them under the brand name of PlasDrill or Plas-Drill

[_ferry_]

Thanks for the info! I think they're hard to get in europe/the netherlands, but whatever. I'm done drilling this thing. Repaired it today :)
A wood drill (that's the name we use here) like mentioned wasn't necessary. The modified drill works fine.

Next ting is the rear cover including a decent seal. That 'll be a though job i guess.

[_ferry_]

Here are some more pics:

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/UGLWtOrJlmzyJAFkSKpIv5Gk/full.jpg
Before the crack

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/5Os4AOoeEJSXqIBLy5TA3bGC/full.jpg
1 of the indicators after some polishing.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/jL1Y6WIPsgKRwBF3qeg1scx1/full.jpg
Starting to repair the reservoir. Lets get divorced ;)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/oiyZ3WpCFINw9pPExLu7u9KH/full.jpg
Preparing for milling. I need to remove 5mm with a depth of 8mm or else you'll see the edge after mounting.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/JfN6bjlafsB5N9bsND1r7LJK/full.jpg
Job done.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/VQqyoct2yNCENIStxddVq9sf/full.jpg
Preparing the reservoir.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/kALQ31GJDPM2MGHxrgUjZlPY/full.jpg
My modified drill.

[brinkz0r]

I was planning on ordering this (http://www.sdevries.nl/boren.htm) drill set of plastic drills. They may do the trick for you next time. For now I'm still drilling every hole at the highest rpm my drill press can do, even 12mm holes in one step. A little water makes the holes look better, but you found that out also already.

[DonT-FeaR]

looks great man!

[_ferry_]

Hey guys! I'm still alive :P

I spend some time at the reservoir since the previous one was still not the way i wanted it.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/YiyYNVtk1dpl88v8qvsjBzms/full.png
First i made a sketchup, so i could double check the dimensions and looks and see if it's possible to build without modifications after building it.

And this evening i've made the top of it:
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/H5fJP5uuO5Qn0mqreGXGTfOE/full.jpg

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/8aHzohSZQpBCV8N4tg6qEkrc/full.jpg
I found out that those heat-set nuts (stolen from some Acrylic casings :smoker:) are very usefull! I heated them and pressed them in a 4,5mm drilled hole. After cooling down they're rocksolid!

[jdbnsn]

Oh thank heavens, you're back!!! I have been wanting to see the completion of this epic project and was concerned you had vanished into thin air. Welcome back!

-Jon

[blueonblack]

I'll second that, welcome back!!!

[_ferry_]

jeah sorry for the inactive times, but i had so little time and so much work/hobby's. I bought a VW beetle and spend a lot of time on it. But it's mostly done, so i hopefully can take care of this project again :) All the parts of this mod are on 1 desk in my workshop, so it never stepped out my brain ;)

[_ferry_]

Here's a update about the reservoir:

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/oJ3AZRiH71x8uBR0NGqGylo9/full.jpg
All the parts together, to see how it's going to look.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/aaRqWdAxhKO1VlAqSIqY4eZe/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/tDsHgAtxJnWKFcbrdokyO1zb/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/3Zvkj8sbo2gYJ5pPHduJcGeo/full.jpg
Removing some acryl, or else the hose connector wouldn't fit in between the reservoir and pump.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/GlMRlZtEwtIHMhDd7n5YISpf/full.jpg
And gluing a extension piece for the other connector.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/POJcPjDG5bD6MOqniX9Su5vd/full.jpg
This weekend i was on a exhibition, and bought these 6 for only 5€. they're used but sharp. Buy them new from dremel and it would have cost +/-50€
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/yD7BOOwsZdHCNk3aKswBXr6P/full.jpg
And they became usefull to make a channel where i can lay down the rubber seal. Hope it will be without leaking.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/nwUJsXNEEdi8bsJ0EpqtnMJB/full.jpg
Gluing the first part onto the faceplate. i'm using acryfix. Smells very bad, but the result is nice.

[OvRiDe]

Awesome.. great to see an update!

And it goes with out saying.. very cool work.

[billygoat333]

yay for updates! good looking work. :)

[_ferry_]

Today i ran the first tests to check if the reservoir seal is working, and yes, it is :D

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/5dvuqLuEceehWKwsolIVzhmW/full.jpg
But the flow indicator isn't working. Well, i didn't expect it to work at the first test. Because it's very depending on flow and circulation of the water.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/y9jrURuxtCgn0b72yFk5ra0C/full.jpg
Overview, the hose is going to a cooling block, for some flow resistance.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/pEQb93imAmZpvzqEgqPbfxo2/full.jpg
1 pic, 2 problems. 1 is the flow indicator which is not working at all. Second is that screw. which i made in a part where there's water. So unless i thighten it well it leaks water. Guess i can solve it with a rubber O-ring.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/ZOE6t0DC8zr8uRsHXwG9PppH/full.jpg
And hopefully this will become the solution for the flow indicator. A bigger one. It's so big that it once it's on the bottom it will close the inlet port. Due to the water pressure there's no other way than going up. At least that's what i'm hoping ;)
Well, after building it might require fine-tuning in weight and/or resistance. But that's for later times.


edit:
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/mr05DKNlbasDVjf0zhOOZASf/full.jpg
I think something like this will be nice. Not sure if i should spend a lot of time on milling and working out this design while i don't know if this will work. But i have a good feeling about it, and i spend already ages on it :P

[Mach]

So very cool ferry. I need to back track on this worklog and read up. Nice having you back modding again. :)

[OvRiDe]

Reservoir is looking great. Now I am anxious to see you tackle that flow meter.

[_ferry_]

I still have to show the pics of a perfect working flow indicator:

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/K6Ou8vUkCmRn4KSdgWHQ1CwJ/full.jpg
As mentioned before, the cilinder-shaped indicator wasn't working, so i made a bigger one.


Next step is cutting the side in the same angle as the flow indicator. And milling the inside for a better look.

[img]http://tweakers.net/ext/f/AikKLWs4oMT8IK0teG3iH8wO/full.jpg
After doing so.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/wkInMRDlzZ1Ayf6UXwx7KFcX/full.jpg
A photo after a little cleaning and sanding. Those corners are hard to reach :evil:

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/1xq4uRXwI8M64vSOLTgZtPnR/full.jpg
And a polished result. Including a drilled hole in the center.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/D4w2WETL4KHYqZkcJpJzgF4R/full.jpg
But i had a problem again, he was going upwards, but only for a few mm....

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/KY4Ebs31xbGTlYxln5MKotTb/full.jpg
But there's nothing that can't be fixed! In this case, the hose length and a CPU cooler in series was too much. I removed the cooler, and now the indicator is acting just like it should :D consecuence is that i should use one of those fancy CPU coolers with a lot of thin fins, causing drop in flowrate.

This could mean that the cylindric indicator will do the trick as well. I'll test it out later.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/87MKd0HBI3A5hdRRMVDU9Iz4/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/muJEUj1X10oUOqHsvJb9Qu43/full.jpg
Well, this is a bit of a creppy setup of how it should look like.

I guess a video is all you've been waiting for:
QMOL_U5axhU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QMOL_U5axhU

And a more final pic i made yesterday:
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/CW8Pspu80RYdXRgq6VLEkkXE/full.jpg
The 2 aluminum covers will be polished, and the last open one on the left will be charged with a pump-contol-panel. Well, actually there's nothing to controll. Because the pump works without a controller. But it's just going to look like that with some fancy LED's and stuff ;)

------------------
BTW, i'll be in Madrid, visiting www.campus-party.org
I won't take a casemod with me. But i'll might take some parts of alien hospital with me. And do some live modding/airbrushing.

So if any of you is going over, see ya!

[burntheland]

just joined this thread....looking AMAZING!

[The boy 4rm oz]

That flow indicator is looking awesome, really nice work.

[_ferry_]

Step by step...
To reassemble the case i need to get all the sidepanels done. 2 are done by now:

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/QunlTBc75E0YjD0H9EdNiqkD/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/68XQ4NukOlc4y9wCyTbMPEZv/full.jpg
This is the cover plate for the lower-left slot. I engraved the letters, and finished them with a modified schrewdriver, to scrape off the aluminum. The edges and corners are too small to finish with a engraving bit.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/OmhZY0hIS7XbOmDUozOjvmlB/full.jpg
Fitted in place. Almost done.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/gT1c8KHdWj2cvlw666uKszkQ/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/XxHoUwDvy84PzKgoVRjtJ91R/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/Akh9qk4C2ekSRbK0cPB2TlQT/full.jpg
Presenting you the finished sidepanel. The leds are aqua green, a mix of green with a little blue tint. looks nice in combination with the watercooling. Also a good contrast with red, and possible to combine with white.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/8pTlxaZCregVqbl88gWGBP8E/full.jpg
View on the rear.

Up to the next panel:

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/nvSu0CaKKbgWfiDONUdFJd2H/full.jpg
This panel receives a window, giving a direct view to the mainboard. Window sizes are matched with the other one.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/RmnajVRFzVEClnFNOVSaLkvI/full.jpg
A.C.Ryan sponsored me (a couple years ago) 2 sheets of 2side mirror. Great stuff. I never had a casemod witch had a full potential for showing it. But Alien Hospital surely has! Without lights the window will look like a mirror, just like the polished parts on the other side.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/u7KoZCM26KR0vKaDctI3lmSt/full.jpg
Together with the second panel

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/CgQBPicSKfjSmYgk104R2msQ/full.jpg
And all the other panels

Soon i want to finish the panel with the co2 cilinders. I need a control panel for lights and cooling. It will be placed somewhere over there. With nice lights and measuring probes, just like a medical instrument panel.


I have made hundreds of drawings before and while building Alien Hospital. Now everything is more and more coming together i thought it would be nice to make some pictures of it. Texts are in dutch, and i dont know how to describe everything. Even tho i think its nice to see some sketches and plans witch are used in this casemod.... Or end up in the garbage can.


http://tweakers.net/ext/f/naetPGcNSYBzMUn10YvAd7Sb/full.jpg

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/C5fTC9DBqJn5cUE8gKlS0Zxu/full.jpg

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/RgCLWL4PpOB4SRbO0yeSaDOj/full.jpg

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/hJB6CKj82LUcqHCAklLiW6El/full.jpg

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/HikCJ6KwnhiLTLpqLPa0qDUx/full.jpg

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/b0YdS2TvDNZi40vNlZkTN19P/full.jpg

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/ezoQigeu7OghYW6DaqxrpfgE/full.jpg

[The boy 4rm oz]

I have forgotten all the awesome work you have done on this project. The entire mod is looking awesome, I can't wait to see more.