[1] https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3760403
[2] https://gael.doepfer.eu/index.php/en/item/manual-fatar-61tp9
One consequence is that even keyboard manufacturers often don't make their own keybeds but rely on third parties like Fatar or procure them from high quality piano manufacturers like Kawai.
Another consequence is that no matter which keybed you choose, you will always have some people who don't like it and you unnecessarily limit your potential customer base.
I think this is the reason why most midi controllers fall into one of three categories:
- Try to get the best keybed they can justify. I would put Native Instruments in that class, because I see their keyboards as kind of MIDI controllers with keys. Some Arturia devices would also fit into that category. All of them don't rely on the MIDI controller as their main product but have primarily other revenue streams.
- Include the cheapest keybed possible, because no matter how good your keybed is, many will hate it anyways, so why no just let everyone hate it. I spare you examples, the list is long. Might be viable but the question is if this is the place you want to be in?
- MIDI controllers that integrate well with existing keyboards. One example is the MonogramCC, which can be arranged around your keyboard. Special Waves is similar. I'm sure there are others.
As much as I love the idea of tight integration, I think the last category is the commercially most viable approach for a small manufacturer.
Edit: I was particularly impressed by the engineering of the drum pads.
I can't have a product that is built using these keys, can I? I assume Korg will not be happy about it.
(I'm assuming at this point you are trying to set up a first prototype or making something you can assemble yourself in a small run)
If you will just make 1-2 copies for your internal use, most probably nothing happen, because in legal practice exists negligible case, where not worth considering sue you.
But if you will show copies on public, upload 3d model on your site, and/or try to sell them (make ads, other marketing, and yes, opensource copy of patented things also prohibited), on some moment they could make decision, this is not negligible and will sue you.
To avoid such things, you could try to find their patents and make your own mechanics with other geometry.
Also, patents are not forever, usual max term approx, up to 70 years, and than it become effectively public domain.
So you could copy mechanics of some old piano, or expired patent.
All business is really circle: begin -> try to make -> try to sell -> measure income -> decide if possible to continue (or if worth) -> if decide, return to begin.
Nobody could tell you if it worth, without try. To be strict, exist people, who know everything, like taxi drivers, but for some fundamental reasons, they don't use their knowledge to earn money and got some better life.
For example, I could design case for 3D printing. Or develop app (possible mobile, possible desktop).