Steam Deck "Lifesaver" drop protection

UPDATE 12.12.2023

New Version 3.0 replaces all the other variants.

The new version supports all types of Steam deck cases ( with tab, no tab, wider, smaller, etc)  and can be individually adjusted to the the right size no matter the production size differences. 

simply test fit the Lifesaver to your case before forcing the adjustable “seam lips” into the base and gently hammer them in so its in there for good. (if the friction is not enough because of printer calibration differences use some glue)

You can mount the adjuster to have a smaller or wider stand, whatever setting you like more. 

(check pictures) 

Print with supports up from the print bed. 

PLEASE WATCH  THE HOW TO VIDEO ON THE BOTTOM OF THE PAGE!!

There is a very important step many people miss out on and like that the Lifesaver is not correctly  mounted into the case and will fall out eventually.

The upper and lower lip needs to be tucked underneath the case seams!!

In some rare cases the Case (caused by production differences) will not give you the option to tuck the upper or lower part underneath the seams.  Sadly there is nothing that can be done about it on my side. You can still try to place it in the case and rely on the friction of the upper and lower side of the hard shell  + the Ribbon, but no guarantee given that it will work  as intended. 

PLEASE respect the license the life saver was posted under! There went a lot of time and work  into it and I want my design and idea to remain mine. 

!!WARNING!! The lifesaver was made to prevent an accidental fall out of the case. The clamping force of the device is not very high, but big enough to safe your deck from a fall like shown in the scenario video below. The deck will still fall out if you force it ( overturn the case so the deck faces downwards with its front side!!) I am not responsible for damage to your deck using the lifesaver. 

“Practice” the function only with something soft underneath your deck!  If you feel like the clamp does not grip your deck firm enough add another layer of fabric tape to the clamps. 

If you are using a Skin kit from PlayVital or  Dbrand  use the leftover of the skin and cut out a 26x20mm rectangle and place it over the lower middle gap of your deck where the single clamp slides over the edge, otherwise it could happen that the clamp will peal off your skin on that area over time. Check pictures! 

before placing the lifesaver into the case, check all surfaces for pointy parts. every 3D print is slightly different an unique in surface quality, if you find a spot with a pointy, rough or elevated spot  use a a scalpel, sandpaper, etc to get rid of it for a smooth surface! 

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“ BETTER LIFESAVER THEN SORRY” 

Steam Deck "Lifesaver" gives your deck a second chance if you forgot to close the zipper before picking up your case by the handle. No Velcro, NO glue, No magnets, No sewing, just a single printed part secured in place by what is already there. 

The clamping force of the Lifesaver is very low, so its easy to get the deck in and out, also no scratches on the contact points. 

The ribbon is only a second failsafe if for some reason the upper and lower “seam lock” fails. 

Use some fabric tape  for the clamps inside so it does not scratch the contact points of your Deck. ( Even so the clamping force is very low!) 

Simply Pull the case ribbon through the two opening like shown in the how to video below.

The upper and lower part of the lifesaver features a  thin lip that needs to be shoved underneath the seams of the upper and lower inside of the original case. Please check the how to video below. 

Print with supports up from the printbed. 

Print with 15-20% infill  and 1.2mm outer wall thickness. 

Best printed in ABS or PETG ( PLA is fine but take into considerations that if you store your case in a hot place ( car) it can soften the PLA and the clamping force will be greatly reduced!!)