It doesn't look like much, but it let me get thinking anyway.
I used my regular software (Lightwave3D) to get dimensions so that I know things will fit:

mockup A

01.06.08:back to top of page

I started to get the frame pieced together so that I can get the marks for the dowels so I can start drilling holes.

What I'm going for here is just the frame itself:

01.09.08:back to top of page

My plan is to keep the frame in "mock-up" form and work on the inside structure for this case. So I've started with the 3.5" Drive bay.

The rough design is as so:

While I have had the 3.5" and 5.25" drive bays complete for a while, I have since decided to re-design them. As stated before, the precious design did not integrate well into the case frame.

Here are my CAD drawings for the new design. This is a new software package call Nap Kin 2.0.

The next section I have started work on is the modular, dynamic, side-panels (nice name huh? Sounds slick, hope it works!). The idea is that the side panels are easily interchangeable and swapped out. Similar to any other case where the side panel can be removed. I am first building a generic frame that attaches and detaches from the side of the case. To this frame will be attached the door/hatch/plexiglass that allows access to the interior of the machines.

I hope you can see the idea in these GIF animations below. If they are not working on this site, click HERE to see them.

02.25.08:back to table of contents

If you remember, I have this concept for a four-part dynamic panel. I will dub this the Barkley Panel as it is inspired by an idea a friend of mine had that's not too far from this concept. I'll give him his due as well as a 2.75% royalty from all net profits!

Here's the Barkley Panel closed.

3.20.08

Here's another idea I am playing with for the doors. If this is more technically feasable, then I will go with this. Don't frag me on the trim-work getting in the way. I haven't worked that out yet.

two new ideas for the THIRD run at the drive bay.

and now I'm about through set number 3. Why? Set number 2 was not integrating well with the case. Both in the physical layout and the aesthetics.

Here's the log. Here are the concepts that got this started.

5.17.08:

Here's where things get interesting. The plan is to have this design break up the center of the side panel. Each color represents a different piece of wood. I won't attempt to use a different type of wood for each, just a couple. Here's the initial design. Easy right?

5.25.08:

As for the Barkley panels, they've been shelved for a future project. I've gone to a sliding panel door. Works like this.