What is this?My most recent model of this project.
This is a miniature keyboard that functions as a macro pad. I made it since using on screen buttons for taking notes on my tablet took too long. The macro pad allows me to change pen colors, easily hit undo, and zoom in and out. This version I made uses a ESP32 Super Mini and 6 MX switches. This build uses a hand soldering set up instead of a custom PCB. If given the budget, I wish to implement more features (an OLED display, rotary encoder, switch paddles).
Why did you make this?Designing for the end-user, the person who will actually use your design, is one of the most important things for being a good product. A good office chair will allow you to adjust the height of the chair, angle of the rest, along with several other features. A good app will allow the user to change how the app looks for a better feel. 3D printing allows for rapid prototypes, and most importantly, the creation of consistent prototypes. It's the foundation for a majority of my projects! If something goes wrong with the finished part, I can go into Fusion360, edit the solution in, and print again.
With these two things in mind, creating macro pads and personal keyboards becomes very very very doable. In fact, I'd say it's the greatest way to get practical exposure to several facets of engineering.
You have to design your personal case, solder components you would constantly use, and program it to fit your needs. Then after some time, you can use the thing you made. Starting with zero experience in electronics and hardware, making something like this brought me great satisfaction.
Prototyping more and more!
Despite the major satisfaction from my prototype working, this project does not end there. The several layers of masking tape and suspicious wires leaves a lot for improvement. This was a proof of concept, and now it is something I want to personally invest in.
Comments