Hi guys,
Sorry but there was a bit of a lull there in development, due to lack of time and funds. But I do have an update, woo hoo!
I modeled the latest 2 vent configurations with the I/O vs. non-I/O front cover (in black).
The Slotted versions:
The Slotted-Hex versions:
Ok, and I have managed to get some parts laser cut. I had 4 covers cut to try out bending, installing hex mesh and powder coating. I also got 6 front plates, split between the uncluttered version and the usb-I/O-power switch versions, to fit check and to do some chem-etch and anodizing trials.
Lastly, I had some PCI hold-downs made for bending trials and then fit checks.
Here is a pic of some of the glorious aluminum, including the work I've done bending and installing hex mesh on 1 cover:
Now I don't have money to get the latest chassis frame made, so I took the existing prototype and modified it to accept the new cover and front plate. Mostly attachment screw locations moved a bit.
Here are some pics of the case assembly, unfinished and looking a bit ragged, but it made a good showing as far as fit up. I didn't have the latest flat head screws so I used these button head for now, and waiting on the right screws (I thought I had some, but wrong pitch, grrr).
So I'm pretty happy. I finally have a prototype of the latest simplified cover design with smooth bends and 4-screw attachment, and has the large slots. I used the sheet metal bender I bought a couple months ago with an attachment made to do the large-radius bends.
I do have the power button cap being 3d printed next week. It will be black plastic with a translucent center circle to show the power status light.
First run date, well that's still up in the air, as chassis prototyping is still to be done, the most expensive part of the case. But I'm still plugging away at it, envisioning a Ryzen 7-1800 and a 1070 stuffed in there.......