Faceplate layouts can be a simple chore, but I managed to make this a trial. I started with the simplest panel, the timer. In my imagination, it was eight buttons, four up and four down, under four digits. I started with the display and pushbuttons. The display can fasten to the top with four #4 screws, but I plan to use inexpensive tactile switches, and those need to mount on a flat surface. My solution was to cut a slab with corresponding mounting holes that will sit parallel to the face.
I figured I was done designing the top, so I turned to the sides. I planned to add a MIDI port, and I already had a footprint for it. The unit was very compact, but I realized the data port would probably bump into other components inside the enclosure, so I made it wider. Next, I remembered that I didn't have power running to the device, and I considered adding voltage lines to the MIDI cables, but that wouldn't be standard, so I opted for a barrel connector, for which I had a footprint ready.
The next three-dimensional problem I had was how to hold the sides to the box. I have never built a box with interlocking fingers, and they rely on knowing the material thickness, and I'll probably use scrap wood. Rather than guess at laser kerf width and material thickness, I decided I would not print sides. All my components will mount on the top. I'll cut a bottom, but the sides will be open. If I revise the design, I can worry about completely enclosing the components.
The last issue was a panic button. I want one in this project. If I had loads of time, I would make a separate box to do all the unusual functions, like switching melodies across all units, panic, or randomize all the notes. Instead, I'll start with the functionality I need. Perhaps in the next iteration, the timer box will have all the system-wide functions included.
Faceplate layout for timer panel
The rest of the posts for this project have been arranged by date.
First time here?
Completed projects from year 1
Completed projects from year 2
Completed projects from year 3
Completed projects from year 4
Completed projects from year 5
Completed projects from year 6
Completed projects from year 7
Completed projects from year 8
Disclaimer for http://24hourengineer.blogspot.com and 24HourEngineer.com
This disclaimer must be intact and whole. This disclaimer must be included if a project is distributed.
All information on this blog, or linked by this blog, is not to be taken as advice or solicitation. Anyone attempting to replicate, in whole or in part, is responsible for the outcome and procedure. Any loss of functionality, money, property, or similar, is the responsibility of those involved in the replication.
All digital communication regarding the email address 24hourengineer@gmail.com becomes the intellectual property of Brian McEvoy. Any information contained within these messages may be distributed or retained at the discretion of Brian McEvoy. Any email sent to this address, or any email account owned by Brian McEvoy, cannot be used to claim property or assets.
Comments to the blog may be utilized or erased at the discretion of the owner. No one posting may claim property or assets based on their post.
This blog, including pictures and text, is copyright to Brian McEvoy.
2021-09-09
I figured I was done designing the top, so I turned to the sides. I planned to add a MIDI port, and I already had a footprint for it. The unit was very compact, but I realized the data port would probably bump into other components inside the enclosure, so I made it wider. Next, I remembered that I didn't have power running to the device, and I considered adding voltage lines to the MIDI cables, but that wouldn't be standard, so I opted for a barrel connector, for which I had a footprint ready.
The next three-dimensional problem I had was how to hold the sides to the box. I have never built a box with interlocking fingers, and they rely on knowing the material thickness, and I'll probably use scrap wood. Rather than guess at laser kerf width and material thickness, I decided I would not print sides. All my components will mount on the top. I'll cut a bottom, but the sides will be open. If I revise the design, I can worry about completely enclosing the components.
The last issue was a panic button. I want one in this project. If I had loads of time, I would make a separate box to do all the unusual functions, like switching melodies across all units, panic, or randomize all the notes. Instead, I'll start with the functionality I need. Perhaps in the next iteration, the timer box will have all the system-wide functions included.
The rest of the posts for this project have been arranged by date.
First time here?
Completed projects from year 1
Completed projects from year 2
Completed projects from year 3
Completed projects from year 4
Completed projects from year 5
Completed projects from year 6
Completed projects from year 7
Completed projects from year 8
Disclaimer for http://24hourengineer.blogspot.com and 24HourEngineer.com
This disclaimer must be intact and whole. This disclaimer must be included if a project is distributed.
All information on this blog, or linked by this blog, is not to be taken as advice or solicitation. Anyone attempting to replicate, in whole or in part, is responsible for the outcome and procedure. Any loss of functionality, money, property, or similar, is the responsibility of those involved in the replication.
All digital communication regarding the email address 24hourengineer@gmail.com becomes the intellectual property of Brian McEvoy. Any information contained within these messages may be distributed or retained at the discretion of Brian McEvoy. Any email sent to this address, or any email account owned by Brian McEvoy, cannot be used to claim property or assets.
Comments to the blog may be utilized or erased at the discretion of the owner. No one posting may claim property or assets based on their post.
This blog, including pictures and text, is copyright to Brian McEvoy.
2021-09-09
Comments
Post a Comment