The Haydee - An Abstract 60% Keyboard Case

This is an abstract 60% keyboard case with the following features:

• Standard 60% size (e.g., GH60, DZ60) -- The dimensions of the interior tray compartment track the size of a typical 60% plate (i.e., 285.752 mm x 95.252 mm). Note that the compartment likely will not accommodate a GK61 plate. Instead, if you plan to use a GK61 PCB, you will need to find a standard 60% plate. Also, the GK61 PCB is slightly larger than a typical GH60 PCB. So you may need to print the model at larger than 100% to accommodate a GK61 PCB.
• No standoffs -- Instead, there is a 5 mm ledge running around the inside of the tray compartment, on which the PCB rests. This means that the PCB is not affixed to the case in any way. I did this for a couple of reasons. First, I wanted to see what would happen to the bottom-out feel of the keyboard if I removed all the interior standoffs. Second, I usually rotate a single PCB through various 3D-printed cases, and this system facilitates fast case changes. Third, generally speaking, I've found that simply resting a PCB on the standoffs, combined with the friction between the case and the plate, is sufficient to stabilize the PCB while typing.

TO DO:

• Line the ledge with 3M plastic glue, which, when dry, will prevent the ledge from directly rubbing against the PCB and soften the bottom out. [Discovered that lining is not strictly necessary. The ledge seems to do just fine on its own.]
• Add foam to the bottom of the tray for sound dampening purposes.
• Add a split version of the model here with "welding" joints, so that you can use a 3d pen to "weld" the two halves together.

UPDATES:

Version 2 - I've reduced the length of the case's y-axis, so that the case can more comfortably fit within a 15 cm x 15 cm build plate. Also, I've changed the heights of the ledge and front lip of the case, to accommodate the use of foam on the ledge and to ensure that the case remains high-profile.

Version 3 - Model repaired using Materialise Magics's Autofix function.

May 21, 2020 - I printed out the model, and the ledge works as intended, with the PCB resting on the ledge without adverse effect or interference from the ledge. The absence of standoffs means that there are no harsh bottom-outs [bottoms-out?] where the standoffs would otherwise be. As noted below, however, the PCB fits very snugly in the tray, and a few of the perimeter keys rub against the tray.

Print Settings

Printer:

XYZPrinting Da Vinci MiniMaker

Rafts:

No

Supports:

Yes

Resolution:

200 microns

Infill:

10%

Filament:

XYZPrinting PLA

Blue

Notes:

As printed on my MiniMaker, the plate and PCB fit very snugly in the tray, and some of the perimeter keycaps rub against the sides of the tray. I would therefore recommend printing out the model at about 101% or 102% scale--i.e., increase the size by a percentage point or two. Your mileage may vary, of course, depending on your specific printer.

Further, you might consider increasing the size of the USB cutout, particularly if you are planning to use a custom cable.

Category: Electronics