About device cradle for logi mx mechanical

overview

I was a big fan of the device cradle integrated into the Logitech K780 wireless keyboard and wanted to recreate a small part of that experience for the Logitech MX Mechanical keyboard. Using product images for both keyboards I was able to produce this model in FreeCAD to bring a cradle to the MX Mechanical.

The model is shared on Printables where users can download the original and slim models of the device cradle.

This was a lot of fun to design and prototype. It also gave me an opportunity to learn the image import tooling in FreeCAD which allows you to easily scale product photos in order to start designing around them quickly. This cradle is an accessory that I use on a daily basis to hold my phone on my keyboard so it is always within reach.

Downloadable 3D Models: Printables - TinkerSky - Phone / Tablet Cradle for Logitech MX Mechanical Keyboard

Software: FreeCAD, Orca Slicer, Google Gemini
Printer: Creality Ender 3 V3 KE

challenges and successes

Using FreeCAD import tools to bring product images into the project in order to draw a model based on a union of the desired feature and the target keyboard.

Rapid prototyping and adjustments of the model in order to fit tight clearances on the keyboard to ensure a tight and stable fit.

Desiginging a slim-model fallback for users with devices that don't fit the original model or who prefer a slimmer profile to save on material.