Building a melodica with 3D printing

Hi all

I've been learning about 3D printing to try and build a melodica (musical instrument). It's been quite a steep learning curve for me, but things are getting underway. It would be great if anyone has any tips they could help me with...

I've started a blog in which I'm documenting the process:
http://www.melodicaworld.com/category/the-melodica-building- experiment



Thanks

The Polyjet keys which I had printed in VeroBlue, were too soft, and bent very easily once assembled, so I'm trying a few materials from Shapeways. Strong and flexible, strong and flexible - polished, and white detail. I also made some design changes, so fingers crossed...



Photo shows keys printed in VeroBlue and VeroWhitePlus

Wow, great jonb melodica!
What about the reeds?

Looks great so far! I think you're going to find the White Strong and Flexible is going to work the best.

Hi Doyz

Thanks for the encouragement

Plastic reeds are possible, but I don't think 3D technology's ready for that level of detail yet, so I've designed it to fit Yamaha Pianica reeds.

There's a photo in the most recent post:
http://www.melodicaworld.com/3d-printing-a-melodica-attachin g-parts/


And thanks also UniverseBecoming!

I'm also hoping the White Strong and Flexible will be good - as long as it has enough detail...