[WiP] Leather case for pro1x

[ncrmnt 7]

Hi everyone! I decided I'd share my initial efforts on making a leather case for pro1x. I got mine just a few days ago. This is work-in-progress, I'll post the CAD files once the result doesn't look too ugly. But please note, it requires some good equipment and skill.

So, since it's a true linux smartphone like they used to be in 200x - you even have to make the case and the rest yourself.

Basically, I used the initial design from here: https://www.printables.com/model/267403-fxtec-pro1x-case/files and printed it. While TPU was not around in my workshop, I made a draft print from SBS (0.5 mm layers, 0.8mm nozzle, I didn't expect much). Will reprint with TPU later.

The rest was an experimental job that involved:

• Laser-cutting artificial leather (man, it stinks as hell!)
• Glue the pieces and sew them (Only my trusty Singer sewing machine from 1880-s managed to pull it off, the more modern stuff turned out to be shit)
• Attach the 3d-printed stuff

TODO:

• Redesign the leather cuts and add places for credit cards and business cards
• Design and print tooling for my sewing machine, so that I can sew closer to edges without any problems.
• Add cardboard inserts (or maybe some better material, needs experimenting) Current case is too soft
• Add cutouts for the loudspeaker
• Sand and paint the edge cuts of the leather (once special paint and brush finally arrive)

Here are some photos of my version 0.1.

 

Edited January 1 by ncrmnt

[ncrmnt 7]

version 0.2, 'cuz red goes fasta'

• Used cutting plotter instead of a laser. More precision, better cuts, no stink.
• I now got proper magnets that suit better.
• It now has a wallet for all your cards and backup cash
• Corners have bigger rounding radius (10 instead of just 4 mm)

 

Does anyone remember where's the hall sensor on pro1x?

 

 

Edited January 2 by ncrmnt
More photos

[EskeRahn 5,493]

There are two hall sensors. We have that in the long case thread....

[EskeRahn 5,493]

Searching for "hall"
https://community.fxtec.com/topic/2781-pro1-factory-test-mode/?tab=comments#comment-59844

 

[ncrmnt 7]

Thanks. So far I've placed magnet just between the sensors, so it shouldn't be an issue. But flip case close detection is something I'll work on for v0.3.

So far I'm struggling to find a proper material for the inner part so that the case will hold it's shape. Cardboard is okay, but will eventually grab moisture and deteriorate. 0.3mm FR4 boards look like a good start, but they're PITA to cut in shape.

Edited January 2 by ncrmnt

[EskeRahn 5,493]

@Slion made a service for the old Pro1 long ago handling case close.

AFAIK nothing similar is made for the Pro1X, as it does not generate an easy to catch code as the Pro1 did.
I would be very interested if something similar exists for the Pro1X also.

[ncrmnt 7]

Thanks, noted.

[ncrmnt 7]

Version 0.3, 'bloody Mary', progress report.

• Added cardboard inserts so that the whole thing will better hold the shape. Still not firm enough.
• More precise magnet placement by adding a cut in the cardboard.
• Adjusted sizes in various places, bigger radius on all angles.
• Final version will also have a magnet on the other side for cover detection as suggested in thread pointed by @EskeRahn. But I think I'll have to dive in into the code before it's going to happen.
• Added proper pockets to fit the cards.

I also finally received the special paint for the leather edges, so things should look even better (unless I mess up). It should be something very thin - 0.1-0.3mm. Working on it right now.

Edited January 6 by ncrmnt