I like to tinker so I've tried to create a test-bed saber several times myself. Each time I end up getting to a point where I really like it and so I never want to take it apart again after that, or I end up selling it. Here's hoping you have more success with this strategy than I have. Looks beautiful so far.
Thanks JakeSoft, let's see how this one goes, best laid plans and all that
So far this has just been surface aesthetics.
This is a lovely piece of work.
I'm somewhat in Jake's camp, but also, the current build I've ended up making it more complicated than I originally intended so now it's becoming less takeapartable. I've got some ideas to remedy that, but it's just so hard to show restraint in these things! (actually before I decided to make it a proto-hilt it was supposed to be a get-it-done-and-sell-it hilt).
Some good insight there on project creep and maintaining a simple level of takeapartability
For me there are some considerations and design constraints I'd like to keep in mind:
1) Anticipation of technological changes. Where do I see technology changing and what are the areas I'm interested in? Which parts are going to be swapped more frequently? For example the battery itself probably won't change, but will recharging be 2.1mm socket based or USB? How can the design support that?
2) External access of controls. Here I'd like a reductionist approach with minimal external buttons. Any interface that involves a cut through the external shell links it to the internal electronics. So each switch will need a detachable connector. I'm also mindful that some technologies might require an extra control, so portal holes could be drilled to facilitate this expansion.
3) Entry points. Similar to 2) above, there are a number of accesses required, notably the bit where the blade goes in and how it is illuminated, access to the magic electronic gubbins inside, and holes for sound to come out.
4) Keep the internals simple and modular
Now this is all easier written down than doing
but there are interesting things in the 3D printing world to help with this.
Unfortunately the college is on Easter holidays at the moment so no access to the workshop, so just noodling on ideas.
And while it's good to have some design direction, organically exploring the design by doing is just a lot more fun
, even though that might end up with a few pieces of aluminium in the bin...