Hello!
Been spending the last two weeks working on a way to convert a Framework 13 into a tablet and it has been a lot of fun. first time I’m 3d modeling something like this to be printed. Has been surprisingly easy with all the resources that are available on github so feels like a perfect first project.
This basically houses an entire Framework 13 (Pro battery, speakers and audio board at the moment) without the input cover of course. It has the top cover and display of the Framework 13 between the 3d printed main housing and bezel to add rigidity to the whole device and supporting the screen. It would use heat set inserts to survive getting disassembled and reassembled often.
Working around the length of the eDP cable was a bit of a struggle. originally I wanted to just place the top cover/screen where the input cover is on the laptop but ran into length issues with that set up. Even with the screen upside down. Now it is on what would be considered the underside of the laptop with the eDP cable routed through a channel to reach the mainboard. This however created an issue with the cooling and I would need to have intake vents elsewhere. Luckily, unless I’m incredibly wrong, the mainboard fan seems to pull in air from both sides so it was a simple task of adding them to what is the new backside.
While this would be quite functional already there’s of course things I want to add.
Preferably a dedicated power button so I don’t have to bend plastic on the backside to press it on the motherboard. Maybe even include the fingerprint sensor in the design somehow.
a channel for pulling wifi/camera module cables to the display side.
Improve the expansion bay pull out lever as there’s nothing holding it in place and fall into it when there’s nothing in the bay. Already have an idea to help with this issue however.
Slim it down as much as possible and reduce weight.
I would love to start printing prototypes already but I’ve gotten a little ahead of myself as I don’t have either Framework 13 parts or a 3d printer and won’t for quite a while. But I think it was worth sharing nonetheless.
Have a great weekend/day everyone!
EDIT!:
Here are the work-in-progress files for anyone who wants to have closer look or prototype yourself. Keep in mind, this is really not finished and will be iterated on.
Was of course always my intention to share it with the community, although in a more finished state. I can still share the files here if people are interested in the work in progress. I’ll have them ready as soon as I can.
It is, yes. If someone makes a 360 degree hinge however a 3d printed blank input cover with intake vent would give more or less the same result. can more easily protect the screen since you can close it too.
Could someone use soldering and a custom board in the input connector on the motherboard to connect it? Possibly? I’m not knowledgeable enough to really answer it
first time I’m 3d modeling something like this to be printed. Has been surprisingly easy with all the resources that are available on github so feels like a perfect first project.
