You can build a dedicated macropad for controlling your 3D printing slicing software with snap-part NeoKey switches, a CNC rotary encoder and the Feather RP2040 running CircuitPython.
Each key is assigned to a shortcut for the popular Ultimaker CURA slicing software. The large (and heavy) rotary encoder can rotate around your model and even zoom in/out!
The CNC rotary encoder can switch between three different modes. The lower three key switches can toggle between each mode. This makes the rotary encoder much more versatile allowing you to quickly switch between keyboard arrow keys and the mouse scroll wheel.
Learn Guide
https://learn.adafruit.com/cnc-rotary-macropad/
YouTube Video
https://youtu.be/UmJdvE2cYZE
CNC Rotary Encoder
https://www.adafruit.com/product/5734
https://www.adafruit.com/product/5735
Snap Part NeoKey Switches
https://www.adafruit.com/product/5157
Feather RP2040
https://www.adafruit.com/product/4884
Kailh Switches
https://www.adafruit.com/product/5876
Clear KeyCaps
https://www.adafruit.com/product/5068
Every Thursday is #3dthursday here at Adafruit! The DIY 3D printing community has passion and dedication for making solid objects from digital models. Recently, we have noticed electronics projects integrated with 3D printed enclosures, brackets, and sculptures, so each Thursday we celebrate and highlight these bold pioneers!
Have you considered building a 3D project around an Feather or other microcontroller? How about printing a bracket to mount your Raspberry Pi to the back of your HD monitor? And don’t forget the countless LED projects that are possible when you are modeling your projects in 3D!
The Adafruit Learning System has dozens of great tools to get you well on your way to creating incredible works of engineering, interactive art, and design with your 3D printer! If you’ve made a cool project that combines 3D printing and electronics, be sure to let us know, and we’ll feature it here!
