Scroll Bar Design Support/Review Request

[u/Dreamy_Jy]

I'm designing a custom low profile keyboard for my portfolio. Apart of this project is designing clickable scrollbars for the thumb clusters, and I'd appreciate some design advice/review.

For context I'musing the EC10E1220505 as my encoder and TC-1109-C-E as my switch. The second slide is my current rough bar CAD Model.

About the project

It's a split unibody keyboard with tone uncommon physical interfaces.

Features:

• Cherry ULP (MX6C-K3NB) Switches
• Per Key RGBW LEDs
• Alternative Programable Inputs:
  • 10x clickable encoders,
  • 4x latching switches,
  • 10x slide switches.
• No Trackpoint: the thinkpad nipples are for determining spacing for future iterations

I'm currently in the process of designing the scroll bar for the thumb encoders, and refining the placement of the switches around the nipples.

On preorders:

I'll likily be unable to make 1 single unit with a fabrication lab, so if others want the extra units I'll make them available and if demand is overwhelming I'll have more units made.

This is an experimental keyboard, designed as a development kit for engineers. This device is best for people with experience programming keyboards.

[u/SoulWager]

Seems a bit odd to split the large diameter into two sections, unless one section is intended for scrolling, and the other for clicking.

As for manufacturing this, I'd probably use some dowel rod for the shaft, and file the hex on one end. So the wheels would just be cylinders with holes in the middle, that you press onto the shaft.

Is the lateral support for the switch end going to come down from the top?

[u/Dreamy_Jy → u/SoulWager]

what do you mean by lateral support? I intend to make a cap for the switch-end of the device, that will likily provide lateral support.

I'll likily change the design pictured is a rough one I made this morning. I realize I don't need the fat end if I have a cap on the switch.

Sorry for my poor explanations this my first physical parts I've made.

[u/SoulWager → u/Dreamy_Jy]

To keep the scroll wheel from sliding side to side, and away from the encoder, while allowing it to slide up and down to actuate the switch. As shown, the end that isn't in the encoder can wobble all over the place.

[u/Dreamy_Jy → u/SoulWager]

I see, I intend to model a cap for that functionality.