I am at a weird place. I have been iterating on this model for 6 months, I am at version #110 of my Fusion 360 file, and I think I'm... done?
Is there anything that needs to be improved?
The Chassis
- Prints in 2 pieces -Reinforcement Bar is important.
- I think I can adjust the model to print in just one, but I kind of like the color splash of the reinforcement bar.
- Reinforcement Bar prevents larger UISB 3.0 devices from attaching to the 'front'. Extensions can be used.
- Cable Management could benefit from a couple more guided channels
- I can't believe how effective the current system is though!
- (Optional) Right Side Handle is hard to source
- I found a metal handle in the garbage, and I used that. I don't know if I can find an equivalent part online.
- Chassis has built-in cutouts on the inside for rubber feet to help cushion the keyboard and trackpad, but the feet I bought for the bottom are too thick.
The Hinge
- Imperfect, but it's absolutely functional. Could it work with just 2 hinges instead of 4?
- Earlier testing had too much wobble with a single connection point, even if it was solid and attached via 2 screw mounts.
- Design-wise, it doesn't blend with the aesthetic elements of the rear of the deck very well.
- Asymmetry and parts mismatch is part of the Cyberpunk aesthetic... but it still bothers me.d
The Handle
- Uses a picatinny rail, but has no picatinny accessories.
- Current Design has cutouts requiring the handle to mount in a single spot, AND it requires attachment to the Modular Storage Box, which has non-standard hole spacing
- Without the Modular Storage Box, the Right Side Handle is adequate.
- Current Design has it attached with thumb-screws, which allows for relatively easy removal.
- Attaching the hinge is a little finnicky, and the screws need to be tightened down hard.
- I could improve on the attachment tech.
- Attaching the hinge is a little finnicky, and the screws need to be tightened down hard.
The Modular Storage Box
- BaseUS 20kmAh battery is secure enough, but has some wiggle
- This is a direct consequence of form-over-function aesthetic, as the heavy battery is held in place with a small contact patch at the end, rather than in the middle.
- I have ample mounting points for an optional support strap or something, but it doesn't seem strictly necessary.
The Steam Deck JSAUX Modcase Mount
- The mount points on it are positioned haphazardly, not universally compatible
- I could cover the entire backside in holes, so users can install Heat-Set inserts anywhere they want, but why bother? The only accessories I am attaching at this point are custom-designed cable management, and I doubt anyone will actually make their own AHCI.
- The Steam Deck is a little "floppy" when the 'clamshell' is closed.
- Old laptops used little clips to help secure the lids closed, but I don't see the return in all that effort
- I built a fixed hook to secure the deck, but it gets in the way during use.
- I'm thinking an elastic garter could easily do the trick, but where would I put it when it's not in use?
I think that's my whole list. Are any of those items worth the effort to fix?
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