If at first you don't succeed,
Ok, if at first you don't succeed, try again.
If you still haven't succeeded, try changing the goal.
I've established that the low price for just setting up to make M-Audio generic keyboard conversion kits via injection molding is in the $6-7K region*. Thereafter, I can make them for $50 each.
This is a bit much for me, given that' I'd have to sell a lot of kits to break even and that sounds like serious work ... but not entirely out of the question. Let's put this idea on the shelf for a while.
*For those newly coming to my blog, these keys will allow one to convert an M-Audio semi-weighted keyboard to a simpler-to learn and play jammer (Wicki-Hayden), Thummer, Janko, C-Thru Axis-64 design, also know as an Isomorphic keyboard or 6-by-6 keyboard.
There are better possible alternatives. The one I'm most excited by is that of breaking the key into smaller shapes that I can make locally. For example, if you look at the key here:
You'll see that it could be split lengthwise into 2 halves, each of which would be simpler to build a mold to make, as one side would be flat.
Cheaper still, note that the keys are actually 2 flat shapes, separated by 5 or 6 flat little cross-pieces.
Flat is excellent, as it can be cut out of sheet plastic with laser cutters (I've always coveted a laser cutter, but my wife just wouldn't let me get one), or a water cutter.
I've asked four companies for quotes.The setup cost will be much lower. the big question is the cost per key - will it be under $1?
Ken.
Comments
Your work is awesome: I know you will succeed, and I can't wait to see it happen.
With clever design (and etching guidelines into the plastic), I was hoping to make it pretty easy to assemble. Also, by making just a few sets I hoped they would do the essential prototype and market testing role.
Alas, the response I'm getting is tepid. However, I'm basically on holidays, and probably everyone else is too. I'll pick up the pace in 3 weeks.
Ken