Re-engineering the brick (keyfob)

[WMWHV]

I am also a supporter of minimum possible size, but still keeping the key somewhat accessible for the various compartments that it can lock. I think there are six spots in mine that I can lock with that key. I have no interest in keeping it in the slot between the cupholders.

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[pdwilkins]

Interested. Only fob bigger is my Ford Expedition one. Crazy. The switchblade key always opens in my pocket.

 

[jmdwifi]

I would like a smaller one. I have the AJT one and it is much better than the factory. Using the key is a pain but I don't use it much. The thing I would like to get rid of is the panic button. I wish they made a FOB without that. I have never used a panic button, just accidentally bump it in my pocket all the time.

 

[jrb517]

Following

 

[DougF]

A problem I have had with this and other key fobs is tripping the Panic Button while bending with the fob in my pocket. If you could address that...

 

[SA Stu]

This is awesome!!! Thanks for doing this. It would be nice if the design would fit into the smaller of the three dashboard holders / cutouts. There is a lager one in center and two small ones on the side. That is were I throw my fob but it just does not fit.. I do not like that it opens in my pocket. I also have a a tow hitch lockbox that it should fit into. If the key could be removable so I could leave the fob in car and put key in wetsuit to go surf. Let me know if I can help in anyway.

 

[DocMike]

Shrink it and add an LED flashlight bulb. 1 LED, just enough use when you are fumbling in the dark. Had one on a few of my Audis and loved that.

Thanks for all the feedback, sharing interest and for volunteers for test candidates! I'll keep sharing updates and seeking feedback and will probably seek some beta testers.

The image shows the fobs I am using as inspiration as well as a couple of printed bottle openers I designed. The colors on the bottle openers are to show the stress during opening a bottle (result of an FEA analysis). I'll likely produce my two fobs in different colors to more easily distinguish between them.

If you have a favorite fob please share and we'll include it in our idea bucket.

 

[peteawalk]

subbing

 

[SwampNut]

I'd be very interested if your new design also includes a cup holder, nail file, hidden beer bottle opener, and a way to pick my teeth and clean my ears since these new flat-ended keys no longer work for those needs. I'd like it to be $15 like the fob holders I already have, with a lifetime warranty, and free overnight replacement if I happen to fall out of love with the color. I'd be looking for a UL listing and approval also.

You might also be able to join this lawsuit and force Chrysler to pay you to build it.

 

[Scratch]

I wouldn't mind testing it out. I am currently using AJT and the standard model. I have also thought about a redesign.
Just a thought on the AJT the feel gets better after using it a while.

 

[jurfie]

Here's the Audi S6

I posted a link rather than upload the photo to reduce OT clutter.

You need to add an underhood shot of that Big Turbo!

And I have the same keyfob on my A5; that pullout key would be my vote to keep it simple.

 

[MauiBum]

I'm interested and with most on the smaller = better. Pullout key would be great, but really as long as the key is there and does not fall out easily.

 

[usc4duke]

Interested as well.

 

[WhatExit?]

30 pages of Key Fob Follies posts indicate you're going to be wealthy if you can come up with a better mousetrap. Assuming the posters in that thread haven't already sold their Gladiators due to the giant key fob

https://www.jeepgladiatorforum.com/forum/threads/key-fob-follies.33741/

 

[Jt-wrx]

Like many of us, I am not a fan of the Gladiator keyfob. On top of it's size and the overactive switchblade key, my jeep logo is already coming loose, after a few months of use.

I have investigated the AJT fob and I am not a fan of that either. I made the decision to design a new fob.

I am designing the fob so the key is integral and slides out if needed. This is similar to many of the current fobs on the market.

I am posting this here because I am contemplating producing the fob once the design is complete. I have access to some of the most advanced additive manufacturing equipment available and can produce full-color, textured, customized fob housings. I figure if I am going to the trouble to make my own, I'd see if there are certain features or design considerations other people would like to see.

I will have alpha prototypes this week for fitment/function testing and then we'll dive deeper into the ergonomics, shape, and key action. At this point, I am planning to reuse the factory button cover.

If this interests you, please let me know what you'd like to see with a redesigned fob.

Cheers,

Carl

my visa is ready, no pressure but could you hurry up please

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