VIC-20 Cartridge case manufacturing

[brain]

So, I'm looking into getting some cart cases manufactured. The molds are $2500-$6000USD and then cases are on top of that.

Not cheap, but I'm OK with that.

What I need though is someone who can handle 3D CAD. I have some initial models to start from, but the shops quoting me are wanting lots of special file formats, and all I can send them is the initial STL and DWG files I received in 2014.

As well, I'd like to create 2 cases. A 1for1 replacement for the VIC-20 cart case, and one that is larger at the back to accommodate connectors and such. Maybe a case that is an inch or so longer and then maybe 1" high at the back, with a slope. All of that needs CAD drawings, which is not my forte.

So, if anyone is up for 3D CAD, let me know.

Jim

[SkydivinGirl]

Hi Jim!

I work with a lot of designers who could do what you are asking. If you send me a PM with the files and what you would like done then I could run it by them to see how long it might take one of them to do.

Talk with you soon!

Heather

[eslapion]

Out of pure personnal curiosity, how much would these molds weight?

I vaguely remember reading the 64c molds which were found back and then used in a kickstarter to make a new batch of cases tipped the scale at a few thousands of pounds.

[brain]

~400kg. Molds are heavy, it seems.

Jim

[Boray]

And a 3D printer in not an option?

[brain]

It depends on what you're trying to do. If you would like a prototype case, a 3D printer is ideal, but I am looking for a professional finished enclosure.

That's not a knock on 3D printers, it's just a different type of finish and cost setup.

However, ignoring differences in product, a good 3D printer alone is ~2K (MakerBot Replicator), and material cost is a bit more for 3D printer materials. Still, though, you can't beat the flexibility of 3D printing for first runs and such.

Jim

[eslapion]

These cases would be a welcome complement to the Behr-Bonz for VIC-20. How much do you expect they would sell for once production starts?

I have a friend in the Montreal area who has decades of 3D software experience. I've known him since the Amiga days. Would you be interested in getting in touch?

[brain]

I think the primary goal would be to amortize the cost of the molds over 500 or 1000 cases.

So, that tends to put a bound on the cases.

What do people think is a good price to pay?

Sure, feel free to have 3D folks get in touch.

Jim

[Schema]

Once the molds are in place, can the cases be made different colours? (Like the 64C cases). Transparent too?

[softensive]

Do you use the cases for homebrew cartridge based games?

Are you probably selling some cases?

regards

[brain]

I am not sure who the question is directed to, but I will use the carts for utility cart projects I am creating, and I do intend to sell them as well.

Leif, if I can get colors in small enough quantities, yes.

Jim

[eslapion]

I have invited Martin Patoine to get in touch with you today.

He said he's more of an expert with 3D software related to animations than CAD but he might know somebody with good knowledge of manufacturing related 3D software.

[darkatx]

:::facepalm in shame::::

[Kakemoms]

So, I'm looking into getting some cart cases manufactured. The molds are $2500-$6000USD and then cases are on top of that.

Jim

$2500 for a steel mold? I think you can multiply it by 10..

But maybe you were talking about silicone prototype molds?

[brain]

I dunno. I have actual quotes from actual firms for those prices for molds that will do 500K units. That doesn't sound like a prototype.