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geekhack Marketplace => Interest Checks => Topic started by: MarbleKeeb on Sun, 03 November 2019, 03:22:27
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Hello All !
GB thread with all the details : https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=113222.09
History
Here I am, MarbleK (MarbleKeeb) with my ongoing projects.
I am currently known for offering Wrist Rests made out of marble.
I am still selling some marble wrist rests on my website :
https://marblek.com/ (https://marblek.com/)
By the way, I am very thankful to the persons who purchased those wrist rests in my 3 GBs, as even if it is a simple object, that also pushed me to invest myself in the following bigger and more complex project :
60% Case Project
I have been working for several months on making a case for 60% keyboard made out of marble.
That would be a first worldwide !!
Update (05/01)
Finally, we are not far from opening the GB for this marvelous marble keyboard case.
I am typing with the final prototype right now :thumb:
Design of the metal parts have been finalized and ordered from the manufacturer.
We recently tested our packaging for international shipping : Taiwan => France and it arrives smoothly without issue :)
We are planning to open the GB around end of May for 20 pieces. :eek:
(https://i.imgur.com/xkZsL0l.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ldLsajT.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/lGLuR0K.jpg)
Update (10/03)
The ones following my Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/marblekeeb/?hl=en) may have noticed, there have been some news :)
First of all, I did receive the second prototype and it looks amazing :thumb:
Still in Carrara marble !
Please. enjoy these few photos :
[attachimg=8]
[attachimg=9]
[attachimg=10]
[attachimg=11]
Complete Album : https://imgur.com/a/DulQHWu
As well:
The standoffs can be unscrewed and are CNC aluminum with a adhesive rubber stick on the top for damping.
The fixation plate for these standoffs will be a bit different than on the picture and made of stainless steel.
The adhesive rubber feet (die-cut) have been received from the factory, while they look simple, they are of good quality.
I am still missing some quotations, but we are still in the ballpark of 300USD for the case. :eek:
The prototype is back to the factory for some minor modifications, then I should be almost ready for the GB, let's hope for end of this year !
Update (06/27)
Time for an update on everything going-on in the back ! And a lot happened !
First, of all, the photos of the first prototype made out of Italian Carrara Marble :
Let's make it clear, it is an unfinished, unpolished, not angled prototype, mainly to check the dimensions are good and doable.
[attachimg=4]
[attachimg=5]
[attachimg=6]
[attachimg=7]
Following this prototype, I decided to made a few changes on how the PCB will be fixed to the marble.
I will use a aluminum plate glued to the marble.
Original announcement :
The first prototype is currently in the work by the manufacturer. I had several technical limitations to solve or workaround..
Therefore I tried to go for a simple design at first.
It will be compatible with the popular DZ60 PCB.
The price should not be too crazy, from the first estimations it should be between 200 to 300 USD.
I have some new renders made with Blender :
[attachimg=2]
[attachimg=3]
About the design, the holes in the case will have threaded inserts, which will be used to screw small Nylon standoffs and then place the PCB on those standoffs.
One of my objective was to have the case made out of one single piece of marble.
Also, the case will be inclined thanks to 2 aluminum feet. (around 5 degrees angle)
To give a better idea of the base material, those are my current offering :
[attachimg=1]
Comments and feedbacks are more than welcome !
Thanks a lot !
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Sounds really interesting, will keep an eye out for this!
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Is anybody using marble cases out there in the wild? I’d like to know how fragile or heavy the material is.
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Is anybody using marble cases out there in the wild? I’d like to know how fragile or heavy the material is.
Definitely brittle
Sent from my SM-N960F using Tapatalk
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Is anybody using marble cases out there in the wild? I’d like to know how fragile or heavy the material is.
Definitely brittle
Sent from my SM-N960F using Tapatalk
Nah, marble is not very brittle. Nothing to worry about as keyboard case. You are not going to hammer on it are you? Btw. The case will be so heavy that I don't think someone will use it differently than statically on the desk.
Btw., sick project! Pity I am not into staggered keyboards.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
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Hmm, very interesting! I take it these will need to be sealed & cared for just like a marble countertop?
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I’m in.
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Is anybody using marble cases out there in the wild? I’d like to know how fragile or heavy the material is.
Definitely brittle
Sent from my SM-N960F using Tapatalk
Nah, marble is not very brittle. Nothing to worry about as keyboard case. You are not going to hammer on it are you? Btw. The case will be so heavy that I don't think someone will use it differently than statically on the desk.
Btw., sick project! Pity I am not into staggered keyboards.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
I definitively agree! As long it is not used to smash something, it will not break. I remind that marble is commonly used for kitchen countertops.
The weight should be around 2.5 kg or more (5.5 pounds).
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Hmm, very interesting! I take it these will need to be sealed & cared for just like a marble countertops?
Yes, it will be polished and coated for protection.
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Very cool project. Any chance you would do a 65% board? Lack of arrow keys kill it for me.
If not the round, hopefully for a future project.
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Let’s just hope this doesn’t turn out like another project out there that’s made out of a similar material lol
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$250-400 is a wide estimation, but I would love to see this happen!
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Btw., sick project! Pity I am not into staggered keyboards.
XD75re
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Btw., sick project! Pity I am not into staggered keyboards.
XD75re
Must be split and columnar staggered... not many fancy that format.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
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$250-400 is a wide estimation, but I would love to see this happen!
It is more likely to be at $300, but I cannot confirm that yet, I am only at the prototyping stage.
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Very cool project. Any chance you would do a 65% board? Lack of arrow keys kill it for me.
If not the round, hopefully for a future project.
That is my next project after the 60% ;D
But, I have arrow keys on my DZ60.
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Will we get an HHKB option? If so I'm in 100%
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Yes, I wanna flex my wooden desk with a marble case! :)
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Will we get an HHKB option? If so I'm in 100%
Unfortunately, that looks too complex to be made out of marble.
I can only do a case in one solid part, I could not do a sandwich/gasket case :/
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Sounds amazing, too bad my wallet is currently completely empty; a case made of carrara marble would definitely be my endgame. If you keep it at the low end of the estimate, I might be able to convince myself (and significant other) to go for it. I'm interested in how the acoustics would be.... I'm guessing because of how dense the stone is it would produce superior thoccy tones.
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This is amazing!!!! Instead of using attached feet would it be possible to build in the angling?
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Is there a color combination like this one?
https://imgur.com/a/3uCjVNO
I personally love the color layout of white and gold
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Wow that's insane. I would be so scared of dropping it
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This is amazing!!!! Instead of using attached feet would it be possible to build in the angling?
I start with a simple design for the first product. That is already a complex product to do in marble.
The angling would add some difficulties but I hope it will be possible to do later on.
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Is there a color combination like this one?
https://imgur.com/a/3uCjVNO
I personally love the color layout of white and gold
It doesn't look like natural marble, maybe artificial (quartz) stone ?
Unfortunately, I don't have this in my current catalog :/
The white / green / black, should be my basic colors.
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That sounds really neat. Would you offer a kit with the PCB packaged with it?
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My Waifu would love this
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Hmm, very interesting! I take it these will need to be sealed & cared for just like a marble countertops?
Yes, it will be polished and coated for protection.
the wrist rests are polished or will it be more shiny?
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Is there a color combination like this one?
https://imgur.com/a/3uCjVNO
I personally love the color layout of white and gold
It doesn't look like natural marble, maybe artificial (quartz) stone ?
Unfortunately, I don't have this in my current catalog :/
The white / green / black, should be my basic colors.
Oh I thought that also is natural marble.
When I investigated that pic, I found that it is quartz.
Thanks for the info.
I'm Sooooo waiting for GB.
hoping that the gap between the pcb is narrow so that I can't see any internal pcb, switch things when I complete the build so that make the cool, seamless look!
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White marble would go great with on of those vaporwave inspired sits that ran recently, the 'neoclassical' (neo-retroclassical maybe, who knows? they use Greek/Roman busts and columns anyway) look seems like a perfect fit. Alternatively Mito Pegaso would look sharp too.
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Damn this would be very sexy, any price speculation? I assume loads and loads and loads :P
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Shipping will be nerve-racking , marble sounds so brittle
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Hmm, very interesting! I take it these will need to be sealed & cared for just like a marble countertops?
Yes, it will be polished and coated for protection.
the wrist rests are polished or will it be more shiny?
They are already polished on the photos and are quite reflective, but not like mirrors.
I also tried to took my photos without seeing reflections, you can see more photos in my link below :
https://imgur.com/a/Eq0rLYl
That sounds really neat. Would you offer a kit with the PCB packaged with it?
I am basing it on a widely available DZ60, so I do not plan to include it.
To be frank, to manage the logistic to add the PCB would be a bit too much for me.
Damn this would be very sexy, any price speculation? I assume loads and loads and loads :P
Currently, estimation is around 250 to 300 USD.
One of the manufacturer's machine is currently broken so I am still waiting for the prototype.
Shipping will be nerve-racking , marble sounds so brittle
No issue for the shipping, I already shipped dozens of marble wrist rests worldwide without any issue :)
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I'm in. This sounds to freaking cool to pass up.
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What would be the angle of the case? With screw-in standoffs I'm afraid it will be quite high and I prefer 5-7 degrees...
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I am definitely interested, but I won't go down to 60%. Any chance you could do the simplest of 65% layouts? like the Tada 68? If yes, I would definitely be in for one.
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Very cool project. Any chance you would do a 65% board? Lack of arrow keys kill it for me.
If not the round, hopefully for a future project.
That is my next project after the 60% ;D
But, I have arrow keys on my DZ60.
Just saw this post from earlier... Guess I'll be waiting this one out. I hope the second round still has that beautiful green marble.
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Take my money... will ya ??
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Also highly prefer a 65% layout. If I were to join, the angle would need to be part of the case.
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I see an issue with the aluminum feet. I feel like it would be a far better option to create a 6 degree wedge out of aluminum or acrylic that goes the whole underside of the marble board. The way I see it now, you have created stress points in the marble by drilling into it to install the aluminum feet and the pcb mounting points. You have a fulcrum point where the feet are drilled and having the weight of the board, and your hands supported by these feet will cause that material to crack over time due to the forces on those mounting points. Marble tiles for flooring frequently crack from the floor not being perfectly level and I feel like that would happen here with the current feet set up.
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Definitely interested!
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hell yea, looks rad, will join, especially at 60%
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Definitely interested
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This would be sick! Would join if this comes to fruition.
P.S would prefer 65%, but I assume it's easier to get 60% to MOQ?
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can the feet be optional? i do not mind flat and i do not prefer those conic feet
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Hello All !
Thanks a lot for the feedback !! I recently created my Instagram account, if you like my work and want to follow me : https://www.instagram.com/marblekeeb/ :thumb:
What would be the angle of the case? With screw-in standoffs I'm afraid it will be quite high and I prefer 5-7 degrees...
I checked my CAD files and the angle is about 6 degrees.
I see an issue with the aluminum feet. I feel like it would be a far better option to create a 6 degree wedge out of aluminum or acrylic that goes the whole underside of the marble board. The way I see it now, you have created stress points in the marble by drilling into it to install the aluminum feet and the pcb mounting points. You have a fulcrum point where the feet are drilled and having the weight of the board, and your hands supported by these feet will cause that material to crack over time due to the forces on those mounting points. Marble tiles for flooring frequently crack from the floor not being perfectly level and I feel like that would happen here with the current feet set up.
I will consider that and stress test the prototype on that point, but the bottom plate is 7mm thick (defined with the designer of the manufacturer) and nobody will walk on it, so I believe it should not be a problem.
I promise I will mistreat the prototype to double check ;D
My problem with adding other materials as aluminum to cover the whole underside would be the difference in thermal expansion.
I do not want it to finish like the Royal Glam wood/marble wrist rest and have the marble break.
can the feet be optional? i do not mind flat and i do not prefer those conic feet
Yes, the feet are optional
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Hello !
Just a small update to say this project is still on-going for me.
The manufacturer told me he is lacking the manpower to be able to do the prototype before the rush of Chinese New Year (reminder : I am in Taiwan as well as the manufacturer), so it will not be before February ..
Not really a surprise for me, as it was the same situation last year for my very first prototype.
Yes, the Marblekeeb adventure started about one year ago and I about to write an article on that ! :thumb:
I am not empty handed and I have a less ugly render that I did by playing a bit with Blender.
I will need nice textures, but my poor macbook air is really at its limits... (I will probably need to find someone to do it for me when I start the GB)
[attachimg=1]
If you like my stuff and marble, do not forget to follow my Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/marblekeeb/
Have a good day !
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Still think you should lose the weird corners and angles. I think a rounded top edge would look and feel far better. Also easier to machine and less prone to chips if accidental ding.
For the standoffs, have you considered something like the mekanisk type-x? Would make the typing experience softer.
I did something similar in my F62-PE. It's a very heavy/hard tray mount. But I put 2 o-rings around the 4 interior standoffs post so it gives the slightest gasket cushion to the PCB. Very nice and easy to achieve. 2 of the o-rings I used stack up to be about .75mm taller than the built-in standoffs
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from blender, It looks good. :thumb:
Worth to try
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Small update :
I made some better renders ! They are now in my original post :)
Chinese New Year recently finished, I will see soon when I can get the prototype. :thumb:
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I don't think I'll be getting one, but it's a cool idea and I'm excited to see how the prototype comes out.
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I don't think I'll be getting one, but it's a cool idea and I'm excited to see how the prototype comes out.
Yes, just to be able to see how it look, I can't wait the prototype !
I am gonna pressure a bit more the manufacturer :p
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A green one that is at least 65% and cut at an angle would def be an endgame board. I hope you will be able to do one in the future.
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if I choose not to have the feet (use flat), will you still drill the holes?
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A green one that is at least 65% and cut at an angle would def be an endgame board. I hope you will be able to do one in the future.
I definitively hope too ;)
if I choose not to have the feet (use flat), will you still drill the holes?
Yes, the holes for the feet will be drilled on all the pieces. I do not have the possibility to customize a few of them :/
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Oh man, I'm definitely going to keep an eye on this project.
Very interested in a marble keyboard! :thumb:
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interested for sure.
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This is a cool idea! But I gotta have my arrows. I'm gonna hold out for 65%.
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Just to provide an update, my usual manufacturer still cannot make the prototype. :/
For diverse reasons/changes, they currently need to focus only on the big productions.. (hundreds of clock walls and similar stuff)
Especially as this prototype is a complicated piece to manufacture.
That impacts a bit my "marble wrist rests" production, but it is still okay. However, for the marble case, I am trying to find another local manufacturer who could do it.
I will keep you updated :)
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For sub 300 price, it looks very cool and unique! Interested!
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Finally created an account here after lurking for a long time just to say how cool this is! Looking forward to see where it will go.
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I'm in.
How heavy is the board without the PCB or any switches and key caps?
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Very cool project! I will definitely follow this! Thank you :)
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Hello !
Some good news !
I found a new manufacturer (in Taiwan) for the case. They do more small series and unique pieces. :thumb:
I changed a little bit the design, it will be angled. I will try to make a render soon.
Cost should be a bit higher with this manufacturer, but I still hope to keep a price below 300 USD.
And the best : the prototype is currently being made ! (finally)
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I think this is super cool!
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Super cool concept
I wonder how it sounds like when typing on this case
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I never considered a 60% but the uniqueness of this project is intriguing :cool:
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to be honest i like the other render better (the white one). is it possible to do a pure white finish like the ceramic apple watch case? i don't know anything about marble so it could have sounded stupid but a smooth rounded white finish would be my endgame. especially in 60%.
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to be honest i like the other render better (the white one). is it possible to do a pure white finish like the ceramic apple watch case? i don't know anything about marble so it could have sounded stupid but a smooth rounded white finish would be my endgame. especially in 60%.
Pure white with natural marble is not really possible, much easier to achieve with artificial stones (quartz,..)
There are some "pure white" marble in Greece/Italy, but even that should not be perfectly white.
Work on marble is more manual than on other materials so to have a regular/accurate rounded shape is not easy.
But I will probably try it one day :)
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I finally made some quick and dirty renders for the new design :
[attachimg=1]
[attachimg=2]
[attachimg=3]
[attachimg=4]
The biggest difference is that the piece is angled :thumb:
Don't hesitate to share your feelings ;)
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I don't think 'quick and dirty' renders do a natural material like marble any favours but the angle is an improvement :thumb:
Is it still 6 degrees?
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Pure white with natural marble is not really possible, much easier to achieve with artificial stones (quartz,..)
There are some "pure white" marble in Greece/Italy, but even that should not be perfectly white.
Work on marble is more manual than on other materials so to have a regular/accurate rounded shape is not easy.
But I will probably try it one day :)
that pure white would do it for me. i just don't like the very dark stripes or patterns on the white. but a less "dirty" or what's the correct term is would be perfectly fine for me. these new renders on the other hand... just insert the shut up and take my money meme. gorgeous! :)
what's your experience with marble in everyday usage? is it going to shine where you touch it or how hard and resistant is the material? i'm quite familiar with marble as floor but that's very far from my eyes and i never examined any one of them. how about cerakoting them? is it possible? maybe that'd give me the perfect white i'm after but i'd still feel the weight and the temperature of the marble.
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dope !!!
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I dig it! :thumb:
And every single one made would be truly unique. Pretty cool.
My only concern with a unusual material like this is that hopefully it doesn't end up like the Lumina. Also, I would think there might be some specific shipping cautions.... but otherwise, I like everything about this concept and design!
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‘Portoro Buono‘ would look nice.
‘Sequoia Brown’ looks like a love child of a wood and rock
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This is so gaudy and over the top that I want to hate it, but I have to love it! Definitely endgame material.
I'm very interested in how the prototypes turn out.
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I like the angled look (even if the renders look like cheap 3d prints). However, I am a little concerned what the angled marble will do to the overall cost of the case. Won't it make it take extra time in a CNC machine?
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I need this to work out alongside GMK Sparta. Endgame right there.
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Will this have removable posts? Tray mounts are a lot better without the two middle posts.
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Will this have removable posts? Tray mounts are a lot better without the two middle posts.
Maybe this is off topic, but why do you say they're better without the middle posts? I'm still somewhat new to building keyboards, but wouldn't that just make the board flex more when typing?
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Will this have removable posts? Tray mounts are a lot better without the two middle posts.
Maybe this is off topic, but why do you say they're better without the middle posts? I'm still somewhat new to building keyboards, but wouldn't that just make the board flex more when typing?
Yep, the flex is desirable to some people because it makes for a less harsh bottom out. Also one of the disadvantages of a tray mount board is the uneven typing experience, removing the two middle posts makes the mount symmetrical and helps the board feel more balanced.
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The whiter one looks the nicest imo. Super clean aesthetics compared to the other ones. I'm veryyy interested in the acoustics for one of those bad boys!
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oh wow, i wonder how heavy it will be, it looks really cool though
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oh wow, i wonder how heavy it will be, it looks really cool though
Well my quick back-of-the-envelope calculation of a slab of marble with dimensions 35cm x 12cm x 2.5cm and a density of 2.711 g/cm^3 yields ~2847 grams.
This doesn't account for the cavity where the parts will sit, nor the final dimensions of the board and so on... but it's probably safe to estimate a completed board will be between 2-3 kg (4.4-6.6 lbs). Pretty hefty :)
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Have been a bit busy recently, let's try to reply to all the different questions :thumb:
I don't think 'quick and dirty' renders do a natural material like marble any favours but the angle is an improvement :thumb:
Is it still 6 degrees?
It will be a 4 degrees angle :)
Pure white with natural marble is not really possible, much easier to achieve with artificial stones (quartz,..)
There are some "pure white" marble in Greece/Italy, but even that should not be perfectly white.
Work on marble is more manual than on other materials so to have a regular/accurate rounded shape is not easy.
But I will probably try it one day :)
that pure white would do it for me. i just don't like the very dark stripes or patterns on the white. but a less "dirty" or what's the correct term is would be perfectly fine for me. these new renders on the other hand... just insert the shut up and take my money meme. gorgeous! :)
what's your experience with marble in everyday usage? is it going to shine where you touch it or how hard and resistant is the material? i'm quite familiar with marble as floor but that's very far from my eyes and i never examined any one of them. how about cerakoting them? is it possible? maybe that'd give me the perfect white i'm after but i'd still feel the weight and the temperature of the marble.
Let's wait for the photos of the prototype to see how it will look :)
The marble used this time is Carrara marble !
It should be more white with some light grey stripes.
I do not plan to Cerakote them, I would prefer to use a perfect white artificial stone like Quartzite.
It would make me feel bad to paint some beautiful marble.. :/
I dig it! :thumb:
And every single one made would be truly unique. Pretty cool.
My only concern with a unusual material like this is that hopefully it doesn't end up like the Lumina. Also, I would think there might be some specific shipping cautions.... but otherwise, I like everything about this concept and design!
I have been doing GBs/sales of marble wrist rests for more than a year, I am confident that I can do a case now :)
I will also limit the size of the first GB to 20 pieces to not go crazy right at the beginning.
My manufacturer is in Taiwan, where I am myself.
‘Portoro Buono‘ would look nice.
‘Sequoia Brown’ looks like a love child of a wood and rock
Great suggestions, depending of what I can get my hands on :)
I would also like to promote Taiwan's marble !
I like the angled look (even if the renders look like cheap 3d prints). However, I am a little concerned what the angled marble will do to the overall cost of the case. Won't it make it take extra time in a CNC machine?
Ssshhhhh that's a secret !! My poor laptop cannot do much better than 3d prints.. especially with summer heat :/
It is still okay, the final price will be around 300USD :thumb:
Waiting for the prototype and negotiate the price / MOQ.
Will this have removable posts? Tray mounts are a lot better without the two middle posts.
Those will be some standard PCB standoffs, so it can be easily removed.
oh wow, i wonder how heavy it will be, it looks really cool though
Well my quick back-of-the-envelope calculation of a slab of marble with dimensions 35cm x 12cm x 2.5cm and a density of 2.711 g/cm^3 yields ~2847 grams.
This doesn't account for the cavity where the parts will sit, nor the final dimensions of the board and so on... but it's probably safe to estimate a completed board will be between 2-3 kg (4.4-6.6 lbs). Pretty hefty :)
That's not far off ! With the volume of the CAD design, I get 2335 grams :thumb:
Heavy like we like it, but shipping not gonna be cheap :/
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I have been doing GBs/sales of marble wrist rests for more than a year, I am confident that I can do a case now :)
I will also limit the size of the first GB to 20 pieces to not go crazy right at the beginning.
My manufacturer is in Taiwan, where I am myself.
20 pieces? I hope I'm fast enough to get one once the GB starts.
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Hello !
Time for an update on everything going-on in the back ! And a lot happened !
First, of all, the photos of the first prototype made out of Italian Carrara Marble :
Let's make it clear, it is an unfinished, unpolished, not angled prototype, mainly to check the dimensions are good and doable.
[attachimg=1]
[attachimg=2]
[attachimg=3]
[attachimg=4]
[attachimg=5]
[attachimg=6]
Following this prototype, I decided to made a few changes on how the PCB will be fixed to the marble.
I will use a aluminum plate glued to the marble.
Also, please ! Help me on this IC by filling thie survey below !
Your point of view is more than welcome :thumb:
https://forms.gle/ArBn7EBjtgfoCXUs7
Thanks a lot !
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Since this looks like it i cut from a single slab of marble Im guessing the likehilood of a HHKB top is somewhere between zero and none?
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An option with built in wrist rest would be awesome!!!
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really looking forward to at least 65% if not TKL...
that would be amazing... :thumb:
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If you're doing an aluminum plate glued to the bottom is there any way you could design removable/swappable standoffs? Some people prefer to not have the middle standoff for 60% boards to make bottoming out less harsh on the fingers. Also, recent boards like the Mekanisk Type-X have offered standoffs that have a softer material like rubber to slightly cushion the typing expereince. Could be some cool customizing options to offer :)
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If you're doing an aluminum plate glued to the bottom is there any way you could design removable/swappable standoffs? Some people prefer to not have the middle standoff for 60% boards to make bottoming out less harsh on the fingers. Also, recent boards like the Mekanisk Type-X have offered standoffs that have a softer material like rubber to slightly cushion the typing expereince. Could be some cool customizing options to offer :)
I did not talk much about the standoff, because I am still working on it.
For sure, they will be customized standoff that are removable.
And thanks for talking about the Mekanisk boards, it seems I had similar ideas for the dampening :eek:
But it is still under work so I will see ..
Since this looks like it i cut from a single slab of marble Im guessing the likehilood of a HHKB top is somewhere between zero and none?
Yes, for now I can only do case out of "one piece" of marble.
For a HHKB keyboard, it would be more complex with a metal frame...and even more costly :/ But why not if I can do it one day :)
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Have you thought about giving it a name? Would be easier to market. Just spitballing here:
Marble60
Metamorphic60
Gleaming60
Solid60
The Slab
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.
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Have you thought about giving it a name? Would be easier to market. Just spitballing here:
Marble60
Metamorphic60
Gleaming60
Solid60
The Slab
True, I need a name and I was thinking of something very close to your proposal "FirstSlab 60".
Not a big fan of using "First" but it is the only time I will have the opportunity to do :D
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Hello !
Thanks everybody for the many many replies to the IC form : https://forms.gle/ArBn7EBjtgfoCXUs7
Those are really important to me ! :thumb:
In the main feedbacks :
About the design :
- A lot of people would like a higher angle than 4 degrees : 5 to 7
=> more angle, means I need more material to make it (taller case, more cost, heavier,..) and it also affect the global design. That is why I think I will rather propose some optional rubber/silicone feet (2 or 3mm) that will give it a bit more angle.
- Bezel are too thick (or too thin for some) : By a rule of thumb, marble cannot be thinner than 1cm (1/6") if we want it to be robust.
=> I may go thinner or larger for later cases, but for a first case, I prefer to insure it is robust with a safety margin. As well thicker bezel = more marble to admire !
- About the colors that are wanted for future iterations, as I saw many requests, I want to precise that there is no natural marble with gold inserts. At best some marbles have "yellow/orange" inserts.
Current status :
- Still working on the PCB fixation solution, steel plate with custo removable standoff and custo adhesive rubber washers to put on the standoff for damping, (checking with manufacturers)
- Waiting for the second prototype from the marble manufacturer.
- Will need to source the small parts : screws, rubber adhesive feet,..
- Make a nice packaging ?! (MOQ will be the issue here..)
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Thanks for the update email! I actually like the thick bezel and lower angle so I'm pretty happy. I look forward to seeing the next steps!
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Following this prototype, I decided to made a few changes on how the PCB will be fixed to the marble.
I will use a aluminum plate glued to the marble.
I may not be understanding, but wouldn't this prevent the switches from being soldered into the PCB? Or would whoever is building the board glue the PCB and/or plate? What about if any modifications have to be made?
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Following this prototype, I decided to made a few changes on how the PCB will be fixed to the marble.
I will use a aluminum plate glued to the marble.
I may not be understanding, but wouldn't this prevent the switches from being soldered into the PCB? Or would whoever is building the board glue the PCB and/or plate? What about if any modifications have to be made?
Different plate, not the switch plate. I think the idea is to glue a piece of aluminum to the bottom of the cavity in the marble to use as an attachment point for the standoffs that hold the actual switch plate in place
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definitely in the market for this, and the bigger bezels the better (IMO)!
I know that the estimated pricing is 200-300USD, but is there an estimate on the price of shipping to the States? With it being so heavy and a bit fragile, I imagine it can't be cheap...
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Following this prototype, I decided to made a few changes on how the PCB will be fixed to the marble.
I will use a aluminum plate glued to the marble.
I may not be understanding, but wouldn't this prevent the switches from being soldered into the PCB? Or would whoever is building the board glue the PCB and/or plate? What about if any modifications have to be made?
Following this prototype, I decided to made a few changes on how the PCB will be fixed to the marble.
I will use a aluminum plate glued to the marble.
I may not be understanding, but wouldn't this prevent the switches from being soldered into the PCB? Or would whoever is building the board glue the PCB and/or plate? What about if any modifications have to be made?
Different plate, not the switch plate. I think the idea is to glue a piece of aluminum to the bottom of the cavity in the marble to use as an attachment point for the standoffs that hold the actual switch plate in place
Splodeybaloney got the idea.
The FirstSlab60 will be a tray mount case, so the customized plate in steel (MOQ too high for alu) will be used to attach the standoff, as to drill in marble to put inserts is more complicated..
And the PCB will lay on these standoffs.
An image to help clarify all :
[attachimg=1]
definitely in the market for this, and the bigger bezels the better (IMO)!
I know that the estimated pricing is 200-300USD, but is there an estimate on the price of shipping to the States? With it being so heavy and a bit fragile, I imagine it can't be cheap...
It will probably be a package of around 3.5 kg shipped with DHL, so 40~45 USD of shipping, not too crazy :)
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Ok here me out. This might sound like too much, but if you guys were to do a traditional full-size, or an 80% TKL/WKL, with a separate numpad perhaps, I would smash the GB form/process so hard. A marble keyboard would be absolutely tremendous.
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Ok here me out. This might sound like too much, but if you guys were to do a traditional full-size, or an 80% TKL/WKL, with a separate numpad perhaps, I would smash the GB form/process so hard. A marble keyboard would be absolutely tremendous.
Lol yikes... hope someone will acquiesce to you, but geez that'll be a heavy beast.
Sent from my SM-G975U using Tapatalk
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Following this prototype, I decided to made a few changes on how the PCB will be fixed to the marble.
I will use a aluminum plate glued to the marble.
I may not be understanding, but wouldn't this prevent the switches from being soldered into the PCB? Or would whoever is building the board glue the PCB and/or plate? What about if any modifications have to be made?
Different plate, not the switch plate. I think the idea is to glue a piece of aluminum to the bottom of the cavity in the marble to use as an attachment point for the standoffs that hold the actual switch plate in place
Splodeybaloney got the idea.
The FirstSlab60 will be a tray mount case, so the customized plate in steel (MOQ too high for alu) will be used to attach the standoff, as to drill in marble to put inserts is more complicated..
And the PCB will lay on these standoffs.
Ahh that does make more sense. Thanks!
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Ok here me out. This might sound like too much, but if you guys were to do a traditional full-size, or an 80% TKL/WKL, with a separate numpad perhaps, I would smash the GB form/process so hard. A marble keyboard would be absolutely tremendous.
Lol yikes... hope someone will acquiesce to you, but geez that'll be a heavy beast.
Sent from my SM-G975U using Tapatalk
It'll for sure be a beast, but it'll be so worth it, because how many made-from-marble keyboards do you know of? ;) plus it'll be a typing experience unlike any other. Only thing that should break is the PCB and MAYBE the switches if I live that long lol.
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Hello !
Here is an update on this project.
All details on the first post of this topic with a lot of photos !!
Only one here :
[attachimg=1]
Complete album :https://imgur.com/a/DulQHWu
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This is almost perfect. Love how thicc it is!! Only thing I would change is making it higher profile by about 2mm so the you can’t see under the keycaps. I’m not a fan of floating keycaps. Could this be accomplished by making the pcb air a little deeper in the case? Otherwise this my end game 60%. Love the concept and I love SA caps. Seems this board was made for them!!
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This is almost perfect. Love how thicc it is!! Only thing I would change is making it higher profile by about 2mm so the you can’t see under the keycaps. I’m not a fan of floating keycaps. Could this be accomplished by making the pcb air a little deeper in the case? Otherwise this my end game 60%. Love the concept and I love SA caps. Seems this board was made for them!!
When taking the photos i did not screw down the PCB (because going back and forth).
Because of the rubber on the standoffs, it would at least lower its position by 1 mm.
I will take better photos when I get it back from the manufacturer with the last modifications :thumb:
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I'm so ready to give my money for this. Looks like an amazing case and a new, interesting material. Would absolutely love to have one
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This is almost perfect. Love how thicc it is!! Only thing I would change is making it higher profile by about 2mm so the you can’t see under the keycaps. I’m not a fan of floating keycaps. Could this be accomplished by making the pcb air a little deeper in the case? Otherwise this my end game 60%. Love the concept and I love SA caps. Seems this board was made for them!!
When taking the photos i did not screw down the PCB (because going back and forth).
Because of the rubber on the standoffs, it would at least lower its position by 1 mm.
I will take better photos when I get it back from the manufacturer with the last modifications :thumb:
Makes sense. But I definitely want to see it screwed down. I don't know that 1mm is going to be enough to sink the caps in/lower the PCB so that the switches don't show. Would really seal the deal if it was more sunken in.
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I received your mail and came here to tell that the keyboard looks awesome! :thumb:
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The prototype bezels, finish, etc. looks fantastic. Really well done!
I have to agree with the above users though, that gap between the bottom of the key caps and the case is a big turn off. It just doesn't look right as is, especially with those high profile keycaps :/
This is the kind of perfect flush fit that I would hope for: https://i.redd.it/xqusr13s6lx31.jpg
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Any plans on selling matching wrist rest with it?
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Thank you all for the feedback. :thumb:
All the comments have been duly noted.
I daily use a low profile case, so I did not mind seeing the switches, but as it is the biggest request, I will abide and make sure we do not see the switches even if I have to make the case a little bit higher/deeper.
I made a draft of a wrist rest that would fit with this case, but I haven't confirmed yet.
Because quantities will be really low, it would be difficult for me to have a good price on it.. It is still an open part.
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Nice :thumb:
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Just wanted to say that this looks _amazing_. Great work! I'll 100% buy it when it's available.
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Me: Marble? Eh, remind me of gaudy 90's white-trash, New Jersery "rich", like the Sopranoe's house, but I'll check it out I guess..
clicks link* BEZELS! Never-mind, give me 2! Still think it would look WAY better in concrete.
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Interested! Looks awesome any updates regarding this?
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This had me thinking (along the idea of "stone" as a keyboard material" I wonder how feasible it would be to do a GB or something, where you could just sell a 3D printed concrete form, and people could fill it with concrete at home, and make their own concrete keyboard case.. Yeah...I like my idea.
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Okay I *need* a sound test for this
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Me: Marble? Eh, remind me of gaudy 90's white-trash, New Jersery "rich", like the Sopranoe's house, but I'll check it out I guess..
clicks link* BEZELS! Never-mind, give me 2! Still think it would look WAY better in concrete.
Thank you ! I truly appreciate :thumb:
Need to show this beautiful material with some thick bezels
Interested! Looks awesome any updates regarding this?
Yes, time for a small update.
The project is still going on, but I had to slow down a bit on that and work on other projects.
I redesigned the metal parts used to attach the PCB, to be sure the keycaps sit well in the case.
I just passed the orders for these samples, then if all good.. everything should be good to go :cool:
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I would pay for a marble case for Whimsy keyboard. Or at least a guide on how to cut marble to account for screw holes and such. ;D
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Something I have never seen before, cool. Interested to see the weight of this.
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What is the rough width. Just wondering since I may be buying a civilization wrist rest from you ;D
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Make this happen please! :))
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Hello !
I kept things a bit quiet but we were working hard on this project.
We finalized all the parts to make this marble keyboard case happen !
We will open the GB around the end of this month (May) :eek:
More details to come soon :thumb:
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Yessss, I thought I missed this!
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Excellent news! :thumb:
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👍
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Hello !
I kept things a bit quiet but we were working hard on this project.
We finalized all the parts to make this marble keyboard case happen !
We will open the GB around the end of this month (May) :eek:
More details to come soon :thumb:
Yes! This is one of my peak interests right now! My wallet is about to get absolutely decimated by all the GBs that will be happening this May, but it's 100% worth it for something as unique as this.
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Woah this kinda lit, have a few keysets in mind that would look nice with it.
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i love the concept! hope it does well in sales
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Hello !
I kept things a bit quiet but we were working hard on this project.
We finalized all the parts to make this marble keyboard case happen !
We will open the GB around the end of this month (May) :eek:
More details to come soon :thumb:
It's now the 1. of june, any updates on the GB?
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Hello,
I finally made a sound test video !!
The quality is still far from our best keyboard youtubers but I really tried :)
I hope it helps people. :thumb:
Now I can work on preparing the GB launch, please book your Sunday 13th June :p
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Marble case :O
This case looks amazing and I want one. Sadly I don't have the funds and the GB appears to be a small run :(
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Hello !
Thanks again for all the feedback and the support !! :thumb:
The GB is now announced and its thread is opened : https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=113222.0