A digitally fabricated input device allows for the creation of customized interfaces. These devices are typically manufactured using additive manufacturing techniques and can be tailored to specific user needs or applications. For example, a manufacturer might create a rigid enclosure with conductive pathways, then insert a soft, flexible silicone layer with corresponding keys.
This type of device offers several advantages, including design flexibility, rapid prototyping capabilities, and potential for cost-effective production runs for specialized applications. Historically, customized input devices were expensive and time-consuming to produce. Additive manufacturing methods significantly reduce these barriers, opening up possibilities for assistive technologies, niche market products, and personalized computing solutions. Its benefits include bespoke design and production speed that traditional methods could not match.
The following sections will explore the materials, technologies, design considerations, and applications associated with this type of input device, providing a detailed overview of its potential and limitations.
