KeyV2: Biblioteca de claves mecánicas paramétricas

I used the OpenSCAD file to make a custom DSA profile for my ErgoDox Infinity. I used to have all black keys, but I wanted to add legends for gaming, as I use a customized WASD for the left hand and I would generally forget which keys were which. Now, I no longer have to refer to my print-out when I'm setting up a new game. The double wide keys are original, as I didn't want to mess deg a hook in for the stabilizer bar.

The #1 key is a "PUBG Helmet"https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3340417 and was printed with s.

Post Processing:

Bottoms

I had to print with brims, so I cleaned up the bottoms of the keys with a knife.

Tops

I like the texture of the layer lines on the tops, but the edges were a little rough. So to smooth the tops I used a mini blow torch I have for making crème brûlée, to heat the tops shortly and then just smooth down the rough edges a little with my fingers. This worked really well for the keys, but make sure to have some cold water on hand to keep your fingers from burning.

Legends (first attempts)

The legends were tricky. My first attempt was to try and fill the legend and then wipe off the excess, but this generally did not work well, as it would also stick in the layer lines. Then I tried watering down some acrylic paint and use a syringe to surgically apply the paint. This didn't work well for me. Partly because the syringe I had had a slanted opening that caused the paint to come out the side, rather than the top.

Legends (success)

In the end I watered down white acrylic paint and used a needle to carefully drop it into the legends. The paint generally behaved well and flowed through out. This looked great, but I learned the hard way that you need to optimize the paint/water ratio. Too thick and it won't flow, too thin and it will dry REALLY light. Most of the keys ended up needing a second or third coat before I got a decent consistency to the paint. There was generally still some clean up after filling, but it mostly worked well and because the paint is recessed it hasn't rubbed off at all in several months of heavy use. I would recommend larger fonts where possible, as the smaller fonts were much harder to fill well.

Future Plans

If or when I get an MMU2 upgrade for the MK3S, I hope to try my hand at a "double shot" version using a translucent PLA for the legends, as I do have LED's under the keys, but they only shine through the blue keys a little.