Weight Reduction of the uConsole

uConsole
1

I’m finding myself using my uConsole more than my iPad mini for reading but the considerable weight difference is very obvious.

My batteries take up roughly 100g of the 613g my uConsole currently weighs. I’ve already removed around 20g by removing the kickstand and related screws as I wasn’t using it.

The front panel weighs around 56g, I’m considering getting a 3D printed replacement, has anybody done this and could tell me the weight of the new panel? I don’t have a 3D printer to test. I’ve considered replacing the back too but I’d be concerned about heat displacement.

When I’m transporting the uConsole I’m using an Amazon Basic Travel Case (Amazon.co.uk) which technically fits the machine but I’m only using it because I already had it spare. So there’s potential for a weight saving on that too. A 3D printed front cover should be fine for my needs and will be a lot lighter than the 213g the case weighs.

Has anybody got any other suggestions for weight reduction?

2

The answer is 3d print most the parts.

3

you probably can remove one of them!

4

If you want a fan, a 3d printed back panel with airflow might work better than the back panel. it is just working as a thermal mass right now.

Probably use ABS or another higher temp filament, though I haven’t pulled out a thermometer to see how hot the back plate actually gets

I love the aluminum and don’t want a fan so i’m trying to think of other creative ways for it to not burn my house down.

5

Get the hacker gadgets Lipo board and use the flat pack cells, that will save some weight. You could reduce the capacity and save more this way.

6

Thanks for the advice everyone, I hadn’t seen the Lipo board.

I’d assumed 3D printing was the way to go but I was hesitant to jump in to it as I’ll have to order the printed parts online.

I still prefer the uConsole over my ageing iPad Mini 4, even with the extra weight. So much more flexibility than the Apple walled garden. I’ve tweaked the boot loading as much as I can to improve the start up speed. 10 year old me would be amazed at what I can carry in my backpack. Highly recommend the Trimui Brick Hammer too!

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