Scratch-build plexi keyboard?
I've always wondered what it would take to build a custom keyboard.
I've got a few older keyboards I can rip apart to experiment with. And quite a bit of plexi.
My idea is to cut out (carefully) three sides, and then (VERY carefully) thin out the top. Then a little nub to be able to touch the contacts.
I'll have a plan in SketchUp, and it'll be easy to throw together.
Oh, and of course, EL panel for lighting....
*This is a quick throw-together of what I had in mind....
Re: Scratch-build plexi keyboard?
Sounds like a pain in the butt to do without a laser cutter. I'm not sure the keys would flex quite enough with the entire edge still attached. There are other cool ways to make it flexible though. Take a look at this: Hackaday.com
Re: Scratch-build plexi keyboard?
Well, found out that the link is dead for whatever reason.....
I found my file in the Recycle Bin!
Refresh and try again.
IMMA CHARGIN UP MAH LAZAH!
Seriously though, you do have a point. Wonder if I could Dremel out a test piece?
Re: Scratch-build plexi keyboard?
if you gave it two arms instead of one full side, it ought to flex correctly.
well until it falls apart from repeated use LOL
Re: Scratch-build plexi keyboard?
OK, scratch pure plexi idea.
Maybe plexi/aluminum?
Re: Scratch-build plexi keyboard?
Aluminum shell with plexi keys, backlit :up:
Re: Scratch-build plexi keyboard?
You know you've got a good keyboard when two cables are going to the computer from it ;)
I'm going to find an old keyboard to do this with. Then SketchUp out the mesh.
Re: Scratch-build plexi keyboard?
I have to learn to use sketchup....big time...lots of ideas but without proper visualization, paper isn't always going help :)
Re: Scratch-build plexi keyboard?
If you're a student, I'd also recommend getting Inventor.
Re: Scratch-build plexi keyboard?
My student days are long gone, my friend...:D I wish I was...I'm looking for something maybe like Corel Draw...I remember that from about...hmmm....18 years ago...LOL