Snapping Point
I was contacted by a hotel technician in Alabama that was facing a constant struggle with a part within his electronic door locks. This part happened to be a very crucial little lever that would push a contact switch telling it to read the hotel key card once inserted. Over time these levers would snap in the same place over and over again and the only fix was to buy a whole new system for that door which wasn't cheap ($200+). This prompted me to figure out a way to reinforce it while retaining proper fitment and function and making it affordable to a hotel on a budget.
Unlocking New Options
This was a fairly straight forward project and the end result was achieved by making the actuating arm thicker and more robust with a slight tweaking of shape. The print material being Nylon based plastic played a large role with its new increased longevity as well.
These aftermarket OEM spec. replacements have been in use for almost a year now.
"I just wanted to check in with you to let you know the levers have been holding up great! I installed the first one on the door to my office as I go in and out at least 15 times a day and I can easily keep an eye on how durable it is, and it's been nothing but flawless. All of the other levers have been holding up quite well too."
Where can I get some? Shapeways!
Electronic Lock Lever Replacement - Shapeways