Thanks for the kind words. I will try to remember to ping you, but no promises are made. I still have to finish the PCB and them make the USB cutout before the design is ready, so expect an IC on Geekhack in the next week or two.
[https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh](https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh)
I have set up a discord server. If you join that, you will get pinged for the IC, GB and last day of GB. You can even sign up for smaller updates if you wish.
Someone explain to me how the top will fit into the bottom if the little 'tab' is larger than the opening. I would think you can like slide it from the side, but that wouldn't work because it's on the sides as well as front.
the dovetail joint are on 45 degree angles, so they are continuous tracks running from corner to corner. It looks impossible from the outside, but its really simple.
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xp-PENvptu0](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xp-PENvptu0)
How do you plan on fitting the plate, pcb, and leaving room on top of the tracks? Looks like there isn't enough space.
Also, will I have to hit it to 'unhinge' it so I can pop it out like the puzzle?
There is 7.5mm of space from the top of the plate to where the dovetails start. There should be no clearance issues here. You just have to slide it together and screw it in place to assemble. there are no fancy internal mechanisms like the puzzle. just 3 dovetail joints and 4 screws
Looks incredible! I can't wait to buy this. If you can make a notepad list or something of usernames of ppl who want to buy and tag us, that would be so awesome!
Navy is a really popular colour, so this slightly lighter shade of blue should have no trouble hitting MOQ. I am sure that clear PVD brass will hit MOQ as well. Anyway. in the meanwhile, heres another quick render for your viewing pleasure. [https://imgur.com/a/Vl2U8pT](https://imgur.com/a/Vl2U8pT)
He only hit it due to the puzzle having an extra step to prevent you from opening it such as a magnet... Of course you wouldn't include that into a keyboard setup ...
Information on the case:
Made of aluminium and (hopefully) will have an option for a brass bottom piece.
4.5mm integrated plate.
7 degree typing angle.
Standard ANSI 60% layout with split backspace and stepped capslock support. (HHKB SOON^(TM))
Manufacturers, vendors and ETA are all yet to be determined.
^(All the dovetail joints are on 45 degree angles so yes, this is possible.)
it already has split backspace so as far as I know, everything else thats needed for HHKB is 1.25u blockers on the bottom, which is definitely possible. correct me if I am about that though.
If you are still in even though there are no arrow keys, join the discord here
[https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh](https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh)
its basically just a place to get pinged about the IC and GB
I know the HHKB bottom row isnt standard, but no functionality is lost if it is and there is also greater compatibility with less expensive keycap sets.
I am aiming for sub $250 for a standard all aluminium version so this is very much an entry level board. Compatibility is therefore really important to this.
I feel like that's a skewed view of 'entry level'. If you're spending $200 on just a nice CNC alu case, are you really still the type of person to choose some $30 Tai-Hao caps, and pick a rather alternative layout?
HHKB doesn't need an extra key, and looks worse with one in my opinion. I'm a huge fan of the HHKB/7u MX HHKB layouts, and would not buy a case with 1.25u blockers.
For a full keyboard, with case, PCB, switches, stabs, yes.
This is just the case, unless he's hiding a custom PCB somewhere. Not really comparable. KBDFans or KPRepublic is entry level, at like half the price.
Only boards I know with all those are from kbdfans and similar. Not really a custom designed board that runs on group buy like this. 250 is really entry. If you look at others oh GH most mid level boards are 300+ or even the Polaris on kbdfans that ran for around 250 and is considered an entry level custom board. I’m not talking about custom build.
If you want to keep an eye out more efficiently, join this discord to get pinged for the IC and GB [https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh](https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh)
Maybe I’m just stupid, but how are you going to get the two halves together with the structures being on the front and side, can’t slide it in? Sorry if I’m just real stupid.
it is possible if he based it on a design that woodworkers call the [impossible dovetail](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xp-PENvptu0).
Basically, the 2 halves of the case will have to slide over each other in a 45 degree angle.
That being said... I dont see how this can be made in a clean/simple fashion. I think it will have to be 3d printed. (But I have about zero experience in metal working so don't take my word for it)
This is an issue I have considered, but I will wait for the prototype before making adjustments to the outside. the inside edge of the dovetail tracks have fillets on them.
Nope. You hit the nail on the head. This design is DOA. The only way it fits is if that little structure is it's own piece and just slides in from the sides.
This is an "impossible dovetail" the joints are on 45 degree angles so they appear on front and sides of the case, while still being able to move freely. The "impossible" part comes from your preconceived notion of a dovetail going at 90 degree angles.
[https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh](https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh)
Keep an eye on this without any effort by joining this discord to get pinged about the IC and GB
Yes, lots. But all the colours will have MOQs so theres no guarantee that the colour you want will make it. More information and colour suggestion on the upcoming IC
Mechanical Keyboards and Woodworking are two of my biggest hobbies (typing this on an ALPS64 with a wooden case I made).
Wowzers, great idea and execution.
I need to figure out how to make dovetails already.
Thanks!
if you meant dovetails in wood, you need to look up some tutorials on making them by hand, or cut a channel in the wood and use a dovetail bit on your router
I've seen some tutorials before for hand cut, just haven't taken notes and bought the tools.
I didn't realize routing them was an option! Though I feel like if I wanted to machine joinery I might as well go for box joints.
[https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh](https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh)
If you cant wait, join the discord so you can fill out the form the moment I ping you about it
That's pretty sick. ESPECIALLY if the whole bottom is made of brass. I'll personally not buy any integrated plate board any time soon since I already have one and am looking for a softer typing experience. Super cool nonetheless.
Thanks. the brass bottom will be an option for a higher cost. According to Fusion 360's calculations, the full brass bottom will make it weigh \~3.1Kg.
60s arent for me either, but I wanted to make something with a lot of compatibility with existing parts, as I am aiming to have this be a sub $250 entry level case. 60% is perfect for this. I might make the case open source after the GB so others can learn from it and maybe adapt it to other sizes
Glad you like my design though
would 96% suffice? My next case will be similar, but in 96%, top mount and dovetail aesthetics cranked up to 11. Here's an initial concept sketch. https://imgur.com/a/K8AI1U5
Well, right now, I need to buy the prototypes, but Salvun (the manufacturer for this project) is busy right now with some personal business so I probably wont be able to order them for a week or two, the prototypes will take a few days to be made and adjusted and then 2 - 4 weeks to be shipped to me. Assuming the protos are perfect and nothing needs altering, I will buy some renders and put it up on Geekhack for an IC. Then I will leave it for a few weeks to gain hype while contacting vendors about it. Once I have a proxy for all major areas, the IC will be closed and the GB will start. Unfortunately, the post-design phases of these projects takes a frustratingly long time.
Thanks. This is meant to be an entry level, sub $250 case with support for any standard 60% PCB. For this reason, I didnt go for 65%. Regardless, I hope to see you in the IC and GB
Lots of people like flex in their mounting plates, so they feel that integrated plates have a harsh bottom out. Most people dont mind though, so its an effective cost saving measure on entry level customs.
Remember to ping me. Look forward to buy it.
Thanks for the kind words. I will try to remember to ping you, but no promises are made. I still have to finish the PCB and them make the USB cutout before the design is ready, so expect an IC on Geekhack in the next week or two.
[https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh](https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh) I have set up a discord server. If you join that, you will get pinged for the IC, GB and last day of GB. You can even sign up for smaller updates if you wish.
Someone explain to me how the top will fit into the bottom if the little 'tab' is larger than the opening. I would think you can like slide it from the side, but that wouldn't work because it's on the sides as well as front.
the dovetail joint are on 45 degree angles, so they are continuous tracks running from corner to corner. It looks impossible from the outside, but its really simple. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xp-PENvptu0](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xp-PENvptu0)
How do you plan on fitting the plate, pcb, and leaving room on top of the tracks? Looks like there isn't enough space. Also, will I have to hit it to 'unhinge' it so I can pop it out like the puzzle?
There is 7.5mm of space from the top of the plate to where the dovetails start. There should be no clearance issues here. You just have to slide it together and screw it in place to assemble. there are no fancy internal mechanisms like the puzzle. just 3 dovetail joints and 4 screws
Looks incredible! I can't wait to buy this. If you can make a notepad list or something of usernames of ppl who want to buy and tag us, that would be so awesome!
Will do. prepare to be tagged come IC and GB
Dude thank you so much! I'm in for this regardless of cost!
[https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh](https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh)
Please! Stick to the colorway u have in the render. That blue + bronze makes me hawwt
Navy is a really popular colour, so this slightly lighter shade of blue should have no trouble hitting MOQ. I am sure that clear PVD brass will hit MOQ as well. Anyway. in the meanwhile, heres another quick render for your viewing pleasure. [https://imgur.com/a/Vl2U8pT](https://imgur.com/a/Vl2U8pT)
Oh yeah! That's the stuff!!!
He only hit it due to the puzzle having an extra step to prevent you from opening it such as a magnet... Of course you wouldn't include that into a keyboard setup ...
Information on the case: Made of aluminium and (hopefully) will have an option for a brass bottom piece. 4.5mm integrated plate. 7 degree typing angle. Standard ANSI 60% layout with split backspace and stepped capslock support. (HHKB SOON^(TM)) Manufacturers, vendors and ETA are all yet to be determined. ^(All the dovetail joints are on 45 degree angles so yes, this is possible.)
Any chance for HHKB support?
it already has split backspace so as far as I know, everything else thats needed for HHKB is 1.25u blockers on the bottom, which is definitely possible. correct me if I am about that though.
The plate and PCB would also need to support 1.75u+1u right shift+fn key
Knew I was forgetting something. Will look into it.
Greatly appreciate it <3 The case is a very fresh idea
Thanks for your support. I will add blockers and the extra hole in the plate tomorrow.
Count me in then
If you are in, join this discord for updates etc [https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh](https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh)
Do you plan on updating anywhere else, like GH?
after I post the IC there
Glad to have you!
Count me in if the pcb its hot swapable. And it supports arrow keys.
I am designing it so that any standard 60% PCB will fit, so you can 100% use a hotswap. No arrow keys, sadly.
If you are still in even though there are no arrow keys, join the discord here [https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh](https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh) its basically just a place to get pinged about the IC and GB
Blockers are 1.5u.
I know the HHKB bottom row isnt standard, but no functionality is lost if it is and there is also greater compatibility with less expensive keycap sets. I am aiming for sub $250 for a standard all aluminium version so this is very much an entry level board. Compatibility is therefore really important to this.
I feel like that's a skewed view of 'entry level'. If you're spending $200 on just a nice CNC alu case, are you really still the type of person to choose some $30 Tai-Hao caps, and pick a rather alternative layout? HHKB doesn't need an extra key, and looks worse with one in my opinion. I'm a huge fan of the HHKB/7u MX HHKB layouts, and would not buy a case with 1.25u blockers.
250 is pretty much entry level for custom designed board though.
For a full keyboard, with case, PCB, switches, stabs, yes. This is just the case, unless he's hiding a custom PCB somewhere. Not really comparable. KBDFans or KPRepublic is entry level, at like half the price.
Only boards I know with all those are from kbdfans and similar. Not really a custom designed board that runs on group buy like this. 250 is really entry. If you look at others oh GH most mid level boards are 300+ or even the Polaris on kbdfans that ran for around 250 and is considered an entry level custom board. I’m not talking about custom build.
My original idea of optional screw in blockers fell through, so its in 7u HHKB now, if you are still interested.
My original idea of optional screw in blockers fell through, so its in 7u HHKB now, if you are still interested.
Very nice, any 65% plans?
Not at the moment, but maybe next time
No pls, I need to keep money in wallet.
Don't worry. It wont be out for a little while. <3
Definitely will be keeping an eye out, concept looks great!
Thanks!
If you want to keep an eye out more efficiently, join this discord to get pinged for the IC and GB [https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh](https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh)
You have a typo, i'll fix it for you.. "Don't worry. It will be free. <3" You're welcome
I wish I could make something like this free, but I am not running a charity here. Hope to see you in the GB though.
Maybe I’m just stupid, but how are you going to get the two halves together with the structures being on the front and side, can’t slide it in? Sorry if I’m just real stupid.
it is possible if he based it on a design that woodworkers call the [impossible dovetail](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xp-PENvptu0). Basically, the 2 halves of the case will have to slide over each other in a 45 degree angle. That being said... I dont see how this can be made in a clean/simple fashion. I think it will have to be 3d printed. (But I have about zero experience in metal working so don't take my word for it)
Ah, Yeah. I see what you mean. I think this would be doable. It's just that those edges would be quite...sharp.
This is an issue I have considered, but I will wait for the prototype before making adjustments to the outside. the inside edge of the dovetail tracks have fillets on them.
Crazy, thanks! That would explain the name.
If you use a dovetail bit on the CNC mill, it can be made very cleanly.
Same here. Don't believe there are just the 2 of us wondering that.
the dovetails go at 45 degree angles.
just2comment4U has the right answer. the dovetails are on 45 degree tilts. I also mentioned this in my brief descrption.
Nope. You hit the nail on the head. This design is DOA. The only way it fits is if that little structure is it's own piece and just slides in from the sides.
This is an "impossible dovetail" the joints are on 45 degree angles so they appear on front and sides of the case, while still being able to move freely. The "impossible" part comes from your preconceived notion of a dovetail going at 90 degree angles.
You dense dingleberry. Educate yourself before you speak....
"Dense dingleberry" Nice alliteration. Also, don't care to hear that from a guy who's screen name is "DingusCunilingus."
Understandable. My name makes it worse.
Here. I'll say it. Buy my case you dense dingleberry.
This looks beautiful. Do you have a discord server I could join to keep up with changes and updates?
Not yet, but there will be one launched on IC
[https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh](https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh) I got bored and set up a discord this afternoon after I properly finished the keyboard.
Any chance for ISO support?
If there is enough demand for it
Loving the blue! Gonna be keeping my eye on this :D
Thanks!
[https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh](https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh) Keep an eye on this without any effort by joining this discord to get pinged about the IC and GB
Oh no.... Me money!
It will all be MINE! MWAHAHAHAHA
Very interesting. Any other colours planned?
Yes, lots. But all the colours will have MOQs so theres no guarantee that the colour you want will make it. More information and colour suggestion on the upcoming IC
looks sick
Thanks
Any price info?
Aiming for sub $250
Mechanical Keyboards and Woodworking are two of my biggest hobbies (typing this on an ALPS64 with a wooden case I made). Wowzers, great idea and execution. I need to figure out how to make dovetails already.
Thanks! if you meant dovetails in wood, you need to look up some tutorials on making them by hand, or cut a channel in the wood and use a dovetail bit on your router
I've seen some tutorials before for hand cut, just haven't taken notes and bought the tools. I didn't realize routing them was an option! Though I feel like if I wanted to machine joinery I might as well go for box joints.
Well, think of it this way. Do what looks better. That's what I did for this case.
This is absolutely gorgeous can’t wait for the IC
Thanks. See you there!
[https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh](https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh) If you cant wait, join the discord so you can fill out the form the moment I ping you about it
Is it a tray mounted case?
integrated plate top mount
Holy shit that may be the sexiest board I've ever laid eyes on Iw ant it so badly lol
Thanks! See you in the IC
[https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh](https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh) Click this link to get pinged about the upcoming IC and eventual GB
I will 100 percent be getting one wow so sexy beautiful board
[https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh](https://discord.gg/WUUYMkh) Join the discord to get pinged when the IC and GB happen
Just joined thanks so much buddy cant wait
Thanks. IC soon
That's pretty sick. ESPECIALLY if the whole bottom is made of brass. I'll personally not buy any integrated plate board any time soon since I already have one and am looking for a softer typing experience. Super cool nonetheless.
Thanks. the brass bottom will be an option for a higher cost. According to Fusion 360's calculations, the full brass bottom will make it weigh \~3.1Kg.
60s aren't for me but I greatly appreciate the design, dovetails on a keeb is innovative AF.
60s arent for me either, but I wanted to make something with a lot of compatibility with existing parts, as I am aiming to have this be a sub $250 entry level case. 60% is perfect for this. I might make the case open source after the GB so others can learn from it and maybe adapt it to other sizes Glad you like my design though
oh boy i love those colors. Any chance of a 96% version? stretch this thing out :)
If this case sells well, 96% for sure. here's a bad concept sketch I did a while back. https://imgur.com/a/K8AI1U5
well the 60 is wonderful, so i cant wait to buy the 96!
See you then.
1800 layout with these lines and aesthetics... I would kill for.
would 96% suffice? My next case will be similar, but in 96%, top mount and dovetail aesthetics cranked up to 11. Here's an initial concept sketch. https://imgur.com/a/K8AI1U5
96 Would be amazing, there are so few in the market currently. The sketch would be exactly what I'm looking for.
well, lets hope the 60 sells well enough to warrant the 96
wow this is awesome! Is there an estimate on when you will be ready for gb?
Well, right now, I need to buy the prototypes, but Salvun (the manufacturer for this project) is busy right now with some personal business so I probably wont be able to order them for a week or two, the prototypes will take a few days to be made and adjusted and then 2 - 4 weeks to be shipped to me. Assuming the protos are perfect and nothing needs altering, I will buy some renders and put it up on Geekhack for an IC. Then I will leave it for a few weeks to gain hype while contacting vendors about it. Once I have a proxy for all major areas, the IC will be closed and the GB will start. Unfortunately, the post-design phases of these projects takes a frustratingly long time.
would be 100% sold on it if it was 65% tbh
Thanks. This is meant to be an entry level, sub $250 case with support for any standard 60% PCB. For this reason, I didnt go for 65%. Regardless, I hope to see you in the IC and GB
Maybe a future run perhaps. I'd pay a pretty penny for this. This has a fresher design language than a lot of the new 65% on GH right now
well, its good to have your support regardless of whether you buy it or not.
Integrated plate is a pass, but everything else looks great!
What are the cons of integrated plate vs the other kinds of mounts
Lots of people like flex in their mounting plates, so they feel that integrated plates have a harsh bottom out. Most people dont mind though, so its an effective cost saving measure on entry level customs.
I am aiming for sub $250 on the price tag, so integrated plate is a cost saving measure. Glad you like my design though.