Good point! I’ve been considering to print a TPU “sock” of some kind to put on top of a FDM/SLA printed keycap to mimic a silicone (or silicone-like) keycaps, just to see what it feels like. Maybe it’s better to make a mold to try other materials too!
Oooh very interesting insights. I’ll try to print a palm rest with your advice!
Wow, that looks gorgeous!!
Ah that’s true. I got the SLA printer’s build volume and indeed it can’t fit a whole half of the split kb in any way.
I think this SLA printer can print ABS. Or at least I’m told the default resin is ABS-like. Probably not as durable I’m guessing.
Nice idea! Do you mean on top of the switch plate? I’m still brainstorming the design, but it will have a removable layer on top of the plate to hide the switches’ legs (I don’t like that “naked” feel) & keep some dust from falling inside the kb.
Hmm what’s the rationale to print the plate with FDM? Are SLA plates brittle or inflexible? (if printed with ABS)? I don’t have much experience with SLA. And good point, I’ll check Thingiverse for the thickness.
Thanks for the input. I’ll definitely spray paint the SLA parts. Not sure if spraypainted keycaps will feel more “slippery” but I’ll test first with some of them.
Good point with the TPU. I’m not sure what’s available, but probably Ninjaflex (so 85A?)
3D printed Ergo parts: SLA vs. FDM?
https://lemmy.world/post/4621814
3D printed Ergo parts: SLA vs. FDM? - Lemmy.world
Hi All, I’m planning to print a plate & case for a handwired 46-key split kb. I
have access to both SLA & FDM printers at a fab lab, so wondering which printer
tech would be best to print various parts such as keycaps, plate, case etc.
Function’s more important than looks for me. I’m allowed to use PLA or TPU for
the FDM, and the default resin (ABS-like?) for SLA. I’m thinking: - Keycaps: SLA
(I want really thin keycaps) - Plate: ?? (not sure what’s better for a thin &
durable plate that allows a bit of flex when typing) - Case: FDM (Due to costs,
and easy to embed screws & magnets) What do you think?
Thank you! I considered the coin cell idea for a while, but the battery capacity looks a bit too small. Still, it has low footprint & is so easy to find :D
