Just something I've been working on. Wasn't really worth another thread so thought I'd just put it here.
I still struggle with putting labels on wheel buttons. I tried the Fanatec button caps, and although they're good, I prefer something different. I quite like the ones that have the cone surrounding the button with text around it (I think some AMG GT3 wheel might have that?).
I designed these in Fusion 360 (bit of a learning curve, but YouTube tutorials are fantastic). Printed on Elegoo Mars 2 Pro. The resin I've used is just basic and relatively brittle, but this isn't a big deal for these. However, because the resin is a sort of clear/transparent yellowish colour, I had to paint them.
Things I like -
- the printed result is quite accurate to the design dimensions. (17mm diameter, with the centre hole 10mm). Went through some learning curve with various resin printing issues, but in the end I've learned a lot and am happy with the result (so far)
- The text is embossed (I think 0.2mm?) and personally I think it turned out far better than I thought it would. Embossing allows for the text colouring to easily be added and stand out nicely (considering the letter size I've done is about 2mm tall).
- Super impressed with Fusion 360, once you wrap your head around how it works.
- Although I painted them black, nothing to say you couldn't paint them any colour you want. Also the text fill, but for this the paint I use is limited to a few colours (white, black, yellow, red, and gold).
- printing is fast. About 20 min for the whole raft (each has different text)
Things to work on (but not for a while, this was more of a test and proof-of-concept... I'll use what I have, then figure out another day how to improve)
- I need to get some black resin. Or other colours. Better to avoid the need to paint. But still the lettering needs to be done.
- The dimensions after print seem quite accurate to the design. But I have not made them so tight to allow a press-fit. They currently sit on the surface, and I'll attach them with a dab of good-but-removable glue (likely B-7000). Will work on a tighter fit another time.
- The lettering is too small (for me), but I did it intentionally to see how precise I could get it.
- These ones fit on the Fanatec Formula V2 wheel buttons. Other Fanatec wheels have a slightly different button surround that will require a modified design.
- They are not simply print-and-install. They need to be painted (I just use basic spray paint) and the letters filled (but this is very fast and easy).
- I was rushing the process. Painted too quickly, rushing to get the final product. Need a bit more patience along the way.
- I will eventually make something similar for my toggle switches on button panels, etc. Rotary knobs as well (either entirely replacement knobs, or just a simple embossed label to put around the base.) Next is to try a brake-bias knob similar to what
@RCHeliguy shared on Thingiverse (but I will likely emboss the lettering rather than have it raised). Lots of other ideas, but that will follow.