The project Comptometer model H got 'new' keys at its refurbishment in (probably) the 1940-ies, however these cream/green keys of a model J don't age well. Also, the keys of a model H Comptometer should be black/white instead of green/cream. These are one-piece moulded 'plastic' keys, similar to the keys of e.g. an early Oliver typewriter. As part of this model H's current 2023 refurbishment, decided to go for a full set of new keys in black and white. Replacing all keys makes it actually a lot easier, because blending in with any original keys won't be a problem.
In a 3D CAD-program (mesh-editor) new keys were designed, dimensions taken from the least-degraded remaining keys.
The dimpling was of course varied for the even and odd keys, as well as the practical depth of the lettering was worked out with some test-prints.
Also from some (failed) test-prints, worked out a way to make the pockets for the key-stem a bit flexible to get a workable press-fit on the stems. The open areas around the stem-pocket could later be filled after fitting on a stem (e.g. with glue), in case the extra strength should be needed.
