Designing the Case

Setting Up Onshape

First, you should make an Onshape account. Onshape is a web-based CAD program that is easy to use for this application. Follow this tutorial to make an Onshape account: Onshape Education

Making a Project

First, locate the create button on the top left of the screen:

Then select the document and name it something fun!

Importing Your PCB

Export your PCB as a STEP file from KiCAD, so you can upload it into Onshape and easily model around it!

Back inside your Onshape document, locate the + symbol on the bottom left of your screen. Hit import, then select the STEP file you just downloaded from KiCAD. This should now allow you to see your keyboard PCB in an “Assembly” tab. Assemblies allow you to connect pieces together, but not model a new one. For that, you need a part studio.

Designing Your Case

The best way to model a case in a part studio is to bring the “context” of your assembly into it. To do this, select the “Create Part Studio in Context” button. Then select the origin of the assembly (the floating white dot) and hit enter. This should allow you to build and design a part while viewing and referencing your PCB.

CAD can be a little confusing when you start! Looking at simple tutorials online is a good way to get your bearings. The case can be simple. There should be two sides that either snap together or can be screwed together. Now it’s up to your creativity, create a fun case that speaks to you! Make sure to keep it under 12x12 inches, otherwise it won’t be printable.

Here are some examples of sketches that fit each switch. The sketch consists of a single rectangle duplicated using the “Linear Pattern” tool.

Here is an example of a finished case! While it is rather boring, it gets the job done!