Author Topic: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved,Silicon Top Mount,17mm Front Height. GB OPEN NOW  (Read 67173 times)

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Offline Ra66it_AU

  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 54
  • Location: Sydney, Australia
    • Najakeys


    Orbit
    Designed by Machina
    UPDATE 31-05-23

    GB OPEN NOW
    Vendor:
    AU: www.najakeys.com
    South Korea: Geonworks https://geon.works/
    Rest of the world: www.machina.mx















    Hello there, I am Ra66it from Australia. Introducing my first keyboard project Orbit by Machina, a 65% silicon pin mounting style keyboard.

    I have been wanting a 65% keyboard ever since I tried the tadpole mounting on Frog TKL. Started last year as a personal project, I received my first prototype this October.


    The main idea of the design is to keep the keyboard as slim as possible. Internally, trying to make a clean-sounding keyboard with the least amount of foam.

    The external curves and internal weight pattern give me an astronomy vibe, I hope this keyboard is also in your orbit :)
    The look of this keyboard is influenced by the HHKB series (HG variant and Pro2).



    IC FORM: https://forms.gle/pCphkNEkyidLt7gPA

    DISCORD LINK: https://discord.gg/KZ7axT7zKg

    INSTAGRAM LINK: https://www.instagram.com/machina.syd/





    0. CONTENTS

    1.DETAILS
    2.VENDOR
    3.PRICE & SALES DETAILS
    4MEDIA
    5.COLOR RENDER
    6.LAYOUT
    7.PHOTO
    8.DESIGN CHANGELOG
    9.PROJECT STATUS
    10.TYPING TEST





    1.DETAILS

    - Typing angle 7.0°
    - Front height: 17mm
    - Mounting style: Silicon pin/ Tadpole ( 3 hardness options)
    - Screwless exterior design (detachable silicon feet hiding all the screws at the bottom)
    - PCB: Inhouse design with USB-C daughterboard - configurable with QMK/VIA, hotswap, and solder option available.
    - Will come with a matching carrying case
    - Weight:  1.5kg/3.3 lbs built for Aluminium Version
                   2.5kg/5.5 lbs built for Brass/Copper Version
    - Materials:
         - Aluminium Top Case
         - Two bottom case designs:
         - Full PVD Aluminium Bottom Case with 4 internal brass weights
         - Full Brass Bottom Case with clear coat finish
         - Anodized/ E-coated Aluminium Bottom Case (NEW ADDED as IC form suggests)
         - Color Renders: https://imgur.com/a/FFaE7GB

       




    2.VENDOR

    AU: www.najakeys.com
    South Korea: Geonworks https://geon.works/
    Rest of the world: www.machina.mx






    3.PRICE & SALES DETAILS

    Sale Format: GB (28th May 2023)
    Color Renders: https://imgur.com/a/FFaE7GB
    Price
    • Anodized Top Case + Anodized Bottom Case                                $349
    • Anodized Top Case + Aluminium PVD Bottom Case                       $389
    • Anodized Top Case + Full Brass Bottom Case (clear E-coated)       $399
    • Anodized Top Case + Full Copper Bottom Case (clear E-coated)     $439
    • All Raw Aluminium Top & Bottom Cases (clear E-coated)               $369
    • Hotswap                                                                                   +$10
    • E-coat                                                                                      +$20
    * Prices in USD
    ** By default, comes with full aluminium plate, 70A hardness silicon pins, 1.6mm PCB, and no flex cut on either PCB or plate.

    IC form here: https://forms.gle/pCphkNEkyidLt7gPA
    Added options for raw finish and copper in IC form





    4.MEDIA
    Lightning Keyboards Build VOD: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MbM91RubDVk
    Alexotos:https://www.twitch.tv/videos/1837661817
    DBOKEY:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZ1_dsck4Xk&ab_channel=%EB%93%9C%EB%B3%B4%ED%82%A4DBOKEY
    Avi
    Keybored: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aSQ0jrB9S7M&ab_channel=Keybored
    NearLucid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y4epwWdvk2I&t=226s&ab_channel=nearLucid
    Geon
    Makerchun: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SqXRDzC2bp4&ab_channel=markerchun
    * will update here once videoes are available





    5.COLOR RENDER
    More Color Renders: https://imgur.com/a/FFaE7GB







    6.LAYOUT






    7.PHOTO
    V1 Prototype photos












    V2 PHOTO
    UPDATE 06-02-23
    V2 Prototype photos












    8.DESIGN CHANGELOG
    V1 Prototype
    - 1.2mm PCB with flex cut
    - 4 screws between the top and bottom case
    - 4 separate rubber feet

    V2 Prototype
    - 1.6mm PCB with no flex cut
    - 8 screws between the top and bottom case
    - Changed to 2 long rubber feet instead of 4
    - Testing Brass Patina
    - Quality of life changes to the PCB
    - Silicon pin positions redesigned

    V2.5 Prototype
    - Can confirm 1.6mm PCB without flex cut is better.
    - Keeping 8 screws between the top and bottom case.
    - Keeping the bezels as slim as V1.
    - Redo long rubber feet molding. (failed last time)
    - Testing Brass Patina (ongoing process)
    - Quality of life changes to the PCB (ongoing process)

    V2 Prototype Exploded View





    9.PROJECT STATUS [GOING INTO GB SOON]


    V1 Log
    More
    After typing with V1 proto for a month, overall I am happy with the look and typing feel, the typing experience is firm but not stiff, and the 50A silicon pins allow some bounciness in the board. Personally, I always build my keyboards with plate foam, it reduces those tiny noises and still keeps the characteristics of the board. The sound is quite clean without case foam, more on the clacky side. I bearly noticed any hollowness, but it is a bit loud for my liking.

    For the V2 proto, the goal is to keep the sound profile more isolated. I added more screws between the two cases and lengthen the rubber feet, hopefully, it can reduce resonance between the metal pieces, and the thickness of the top case has been increased by 1mm to make the sound more isolated.

    Red arrows indicate the newly added screw holes, the placement won't affect how the space bar sound.


    One thing I am currently testing is the patina on the brass bottom, I have included the photo in the IC form, please feel free to check it out and leave some feedback. If you are a patina artist who enjoys my design, please please reach out to me.


    V2 Log
    More
    V2! Lots of good news, all the changes made seem promising.
    In this round, all materials have raw finishes and I really enjoy the colours, considering adding that as a GB option.
    You may notice that the V2 bezels are slightly thicker than V1, but I prefer V1 bezels more after putting them side by side, will change that back next round.
    see the comparison here:


    Overall the design is final now, the next round (Proto V2.5) will be the final round, mainly for review units.
    I will lock in all the case colours, materials, and finishes after the next round. Please fill in the IC form if you want to share your opinion.

     



    V2.5 Log

    UPDATE 30-04-23
    After hearing some feedback, I have changed the placement of the logo at the bottom.


    Currently all the review units have been sent out, and more content will be released next month, meanwhile, collecting community feedback before we go GB in May. 







    10.TYPING TEST

    ProtoV1 Plate foam only


    I overlubed my left shift lol

    ProtoV2 Sound Test [NO FOAM]

    Lightning Keyboards Build VOD:





    Thank you all for reading till the end!



    Vincent - Special thanks for the amazing photos!
    https://www.youtube.com/@vincentchen1985
    ANZKEEB - Shoutout to my keeb mates, I won't be able to make this without your guys!


    [/list]
    « Last Edit: Sat, 10 June 2023, 10:10:24 by Ra66it_AU »
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    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height, With Curves
    « Reply #1 on: Thu, 01 December 2022, 06:53:04 »
    More

    « Last Edit: Mon, 06 February 2023, 07:13:25 by Ra66it_AU »
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    Offline Flybeck

    • Posts: 40
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height, With Curves
    « Reply #2 on: Thu, 01 December 2022, 07:34:28 »
    Sound test of v1?

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height, With Curves
    « Reply #3 on: Thu, 01 December 2022, 07:48:03 »
    I have recorded it, having an issue with uploading atm, will post it here soon!
    Less is more?

    Offline LMarci

    • Posts: 118
    • Location: The Abyss
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #4 on: Thu, 01 December 2022, 08:06:12 »
    Filled the IC form, looks promising so far. Please consider a non-flex cut alu plate and no foam in the kit.
    « Last Edit: Thu, 01 December 2022, 08:08:27 by LMarci »

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #5 on: Thu, 01 December 2022, 08:17:23 »
    That's exactly my personal preference/ultimate goal for this board haha! Definitely something to consider.
    Less is more?

    Offline KeyBros_

    • Posts: 108
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #6 on: Thu, 01 December 2022, 09:14:37 »
    I love the desing, but I want it 60% :(

    Offline irithyll

    • Posts: 88
    • Location: United States
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #7 on: Thu, 01 December 2022, 12:09:15 »
    This looks amazing. Most definitely going to get this if it's priced nicely.
    Great job on the design and protos, and I hope to see progress soon!
    GLWIC

    Offline AnonyMoose_

    • Posts: 14
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #8 on: Thu, 01 December 2022, 14:00:26 »
    dang that side profile is so nice. glwic

    Offline PlayBox

    • Posts: 199
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #9 on: Thu, 01 December 2022, 15:36:51 »
    finally a tadpole 65% im not gonna expect it anywhere close to 200$ though. glwic
    propably sent from my amazon kindle 10th gen

    Offline The0rigina1

    • Posts: 201
    • fumoposting
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #10 on: Thu, 01 December 2022, 15:49:40 »
    Hmm, an interesting choice for a heavily kei-inspired bottom. It is known in the community that kei as a keyboard doesn't sound the best.
    A full brass bottom would probably induce unwanted pinging. GLWIC

    Offline Zurg Eon

    • Posts: 148
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #11 on: Thu, 01 December 2022, 17:19:12 »
    Engraving gives me Vertex Angle vibes. Proof:



    The board looks well executed. GLWIC!

    Offline TjarleN

    • Posts: 108
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #12 on: Thu, 01 December 2022, 23:35:13 »
    I love how it looks, personally not looking for any 65% otherwise this one would be on the top of my list.
    Side profile is very hot, I am a sucker for hhkbs.

    Offline VXQN

    • Posts: 380
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #13 on: Fri, 02 December 2022, 03:59:32 »
    Board looks great! Would be interested to know what your thoughts about additional colours are.

    Is there a reason for splitting the brass weight into four pieces? Does it make a difference?

    Offline Akele

    • Posts: 108
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #14 on: Fri, 02 December 2022, 19:15:50 »
    Looks great. I'll be keeping an eye on this one. GLWIC.

    Offline aicyborg

    • Posts: 308
    • Location: UK
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #15 on: Fri, 02 December 2022, 23:23:56 »
    I like a lot about this. The curve's really appealing.

    Will you be offering hotswap ISO as an option? I am definitely in if so.

    Regarding foam, if it doesn't raise the cost by much please consider including it - I know "foam-filled" is becoming something of a negative thing in the eyes of the community but for those of us that like it (hello) just not including it kinda blows actually.

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    Re: [IC]Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #16 on: Sat, 03 December 2022, 03:12:09 »
    This looks amazing. Most definitely going to get this if it's priced nicely.
    Great job on the design and protos, and I hope to see progress soon!
    GLWIC

    dang that side profile is so nice. glwic

    finally a tadpole 65% im not gonna expect it anywhere close to 200$ though. glwic

    Thanks for the kind words!
    Less is more?

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    Re: [IC]Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #17 on: Sat, 03 December 2022, 03:14:08 »
    Looks great. I'll be keeping an eye on this one. GLWIC.

    I love how it looks, personally not looking for any 65% otherwise this one would be on the top of my list.
    Side profile is very hot, I am a sucker for hhkbs.

    Glad you guys like it, appreciated! I am a huge hhkb fan as well.
    Less is more?

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #18 on: Sat, 03 December 2022, 03:21:40 »
    I like a lot about this. The curve's really appealing.

    Will you be offering hotswap ISO as an option? I am definitely in if so.

    Regarding foam, if it doesn't raise the cost by much please consider including it - I know "foam-filled" is becoming something of a negative thing in the eyes of the community but for those of us that like it (hello) just not including it kinda blows actually.

    At this stage, I am sure the ISO is an option for solder pcb. I am totally down for ISO hotswap but not quite sure how to execute it, do you know if any board has done this before? can be a good learning opportunity for me.

    From what I saw on the IC foam rn, half of the people are into no foam, which is quite interesting. I am thinking separate the foam from the kit and making it an add-on option. In that way, 'no foam' people don't have to pay for the cost of foam, and foam lovers still have the option.
    Less is more?

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #19 on: Sat, 03 December 2022, 03:27:56 »
    Board looks great! Would be interested to know what your thoughts about additional colours are.

    Is there a reason for splitting the brass weight into four pieces? Does it make a difference?

    Thanks for your interest! The weight splitting is more of an aesthetic design choice. Acusticlluy I don't think it will make a huge difference compared to a whole piece.
    Less is more?

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #20 on: Sat, 03 December 2022, 03:40:15 »
    Hmm, an interesting choice for a heavily kei-inspired bottom. It is known in the community that kei as a keyboard doesn't sound the best.
    A full brass bottom would probably induce unwanted pinging. GLWIC

    Thanks for your input!
    I had the same doubt when I designed this. After testing I don't think brass bottom is the main reason for pinging noise. From my experience, the pinging noise is mainly from uneven fitting between metal cases, I tried this mod from 3ildcat's video for my Kei and most of the pinging disappeared.
    Link: https://youtube.com/shorts/VSMdbEgdvQ4?feature=share
    Less is more?

    Offline aicyborg

    • Posts: 308
    • Location: UK
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #21 on: Sun, 04 December 2022, 23:09:22 »
    I am totally down for ISO hotswap but not quite sure how to execute it, do you know if any board has done this before? can be a good learning opportunity for me.

    Zoom65 and Ikki68 Aurora are the best examples I can think of, they managed to squeeze both ANSI and ISO on the same PCB. Getting the enter region right is a bit tricky (because there's another key added under the ISO enter) but the left shift is straightforward. If you can do it, it'd be really appreciated.

    Offline kolxy

    • Posts: 4
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #22 on: Mon, 05 December 2022, 14:55:37 »
    An orbit logo design on the back would probably look better than simply a word. Other than that, I really like the keyboard

    Offline Plurrkeebs

    • Posts: 25
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #23 on: Mon, 05 December 2022, 19:14:01 »
    That internal design on the bottom brass weight goes hella hard.  :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
     

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #24 on: Wed, 07 December 2022, 00:37:32 »
    I am totally down for ISO hotswap but not quite sure how to execute it, do you know if any board has done this before? can be a good learning opportunity for me.

    Zoom65 and Ikki68 Aurora are the best examples I can think of, they managed to squeeze both ANSI and ISO on the same PCB. Getting the enter region right is a bit tricky (because there's another key added under the ISO enter) but the left shift is straightforward. If you can do it, it'd be really appreciated.

    Thanks! I will look into it. :thumb:
    Less is more?

    Offline superjackie

    • Posts: 87
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #25 on: Wed, 07 December 2022, 02:50:03 »
    wkl plz

    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #26 on: Wed, 07 December 2022, 13:24:14 »
    Wow, this is such an interesting curved design and i really like the seamless sides! glwic!

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #27 on: Fri, 09 December 2022, 01:05:18 »
    An orbit logo design on the back would probably look better than simply a word. Other than that, I really like the keyboard

    Thanks for your support!  ;D
    Less is more?

    Offline Mike2046

    • Posts: 17
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #28 on: Fri, 09 December 2022, 17:24:47 »
    Looks promising. Who's the PCB designer, and which MCU does the PCB have? Atmega or ARM?

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #29 on: Sat, 10 December 2022, 17:48:54 »
    Looks promising. Who's the PCB designer, and which MCU does the PCB have? Atmega or ARM?

    The PCB is an in-house design with 32u4 chip
    Less is more?

    Offline origintypes

    • Posts: 15
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #30 on: Tue, 13 December 2022, 01:05:01 »
    I like how the keyboard looks, but unfortunately not a fan of tadpole mounting. GLWIC :)

    Offline goju2506

    • Posts: 24
    • Location: Vietnam
    • Instagram @goju.works
      • My Instagram
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #31 on: Wed, 14 December 2022, 00:59:15 »
    I've never been this excited for a 65%. Hoping it will be sub 400, also shallow engraving of the circular pattern on the back of the weight instead of inside would be noice (brass weight)

    Offline swva

    • Posts: 2
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #32 on: Fri, 16 December 2022, 08:46:44 »
    This project is looking really good!  Of all the new keyboards I've seen lately this is the one I'm most looking forward to.

    Offline saab

    • Posts: 42
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #33 on: Fri, 16 December 2022, 11:27:50 »
    I really dig the curved HG side. GLWIC <3

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #34 on: Mon, 19 December 2022, 20:48:07 »
    I just refreshed the Discord link again, come chat :)

    https://discord.gg/KZ7axT7zKg
    « Last Edit: Fri, 27 January 2023, 03:35:38 by Ra66it_AU »
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    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
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      • Najakeys
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #35 on: Wed, 21 December 2022, 21:00:12 »
    Just curious if anyone keen for a copper bottom design?


    Less is more?

    Offline Akele

    • Posts: 108
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #36 on: Thu, 22 December 2022, 04:51:05 »
    Just curious if anyone keen for a copper bottom design?

    Absolutely. Given the choice I'd go for copper over brass.

    Offline vonk

    • Posts: 7
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #37 on: Thu, 22 December 2022, 11:17:13 »
    Just curious if anyone keen for a copper bottom design?

    $$$$$$$$$$$$

    Offline DaaDaa

    • Posts: 292
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #38 on: Thu, 22 December 2022, 18:32:29 »
    a burgundy top would be nice
    piggy60 red upgraded PVD w/ GMK umka zaku | tiramisuit w/ GMK noire JWK silk emerald | mr.suit black/chrome glossy chamfers w/ GMK minimal cow POM stem | jelly epoch w/ SA oblivion zaku | mode80 deco w/ gmk boneyard alpaca | mode 80 imperial with ePBT origami alpaca| MODE80 viridian /w CRP boba LT | RAMA thermal kuro w/ GMK muted 2 pewter | BBox60 C64 wih marshmellows and c64 keycaps | MODE Sonnet green /w MW voynich gateron ink box pink

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #39 on: Sun, 25 December 2022, 00:11:03 »
    To anyone who is reading this, Marry Christmas! :)
    Less is more?

    Offline Slimey

    • Posts: 36
    • Location: Australia
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #40 on: Sun, 25 December 2022, 09:02:00 »
    Wondering if you would consider the wave pattern to be on the bottom so its visible instead?

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #41 on: Thu, 29 December 2022, 07:44:19 »
    I will keep it inside for a minimalistic look.
    Less is more?

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #42 on: Wed, 04 January 2023, 17:28:52 »
    An interesting find from the IC result, three plates are equally popular according to the votes lol.


    « Last Edit: Wed, 04 January 2023, 17:35:20 by Ra66it_AU »
    Less is more?

    Offline colinlin

    • Posts: 2
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #43 on: Sun, 08 January 2023, 23:49:37 »
    beautiful keyboard, hope to get it

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #44 on: Fri, 13 January 2023, 01:59:30 »
    beautiful keyboard, hope to get it
    Thank you! Proto v2 has been shipping out to me, will update here soon!
    Less is more?

    Offline OhNyne

    • Posts: 7
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #45 on: Sun, 15 January 2023, 12:53:19 »
    I like a lot about this. The curve's really appealing.

    Will you be offering hotswap ISO as an option? I am definitely in if so.

    Regarding foam, if it doesn't raise the cost by much please consider including it - I know "foam-filled" is becoming something of a negative thing in the eyes of the community but for those of us that like it (hello) just not including it kinda blows actually.

    Iso hotswap is pretty difficult to execute, but if it is done correctly i think it would pay off, not many boards have iso hotswap so it would make the board even more unique, You might want to try around with some pcb designers who have done iso hotswap before
    At this stage, I am sure the ISO is an option for solder pcb. I am totally down for ISO hotswap but not quite sure how to execute it, do you know if any board has done this before? can be a good learning opportunity for me.

    From what I saw on the IC foam rn, half of the people are into no foam, which is quite interesting. I am thinking separate the foam from the kit and making it an add-on option. In that way, 'no foam' people don't have to pay for the cost of foam, and foam lovers still have the option.

    Offline OhNyne

    • Posts: 7
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #46 on: Sun, 15 January 2023, 13:00:24 »
    An interesting find from the IC result, three plates are equally popular according to the votes lol.


    Show Image



    Aluminum would be a great idea, so would fr4 and pc, i feel pom is too close to pc to pom for it to be worth it but its just me

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #47 on: Sun, 22 January 2023, 04:52:18 »
    V2 has arrived!! Let me know if you like this all-raw finish too!
    Will provide more pics and typing tests soon.

    « Last Edit: Sun, 22 January 2023, 04:58:05 by Ra66it_AU »
    Less is more?

    Offline daviddgm

    • Posts: 113
    Nice project.

    Let me ask... About rubber feet, did you design and Will make them or Will you get from another maker like Geonworks?
    « Last Edit: Mon, 23 January 2023, 12:43:46 by daviddgm »

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    I designed and made them. I don't think Geon produces rubber feet for 65%.
    Less is more?

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    Hey everyone, just made some updates on my Proto V2, will upload the new typing test soon.
    Less is more?

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    Hey all, I just uploaded the V2 typing sound. Happy Valentine's Day!
    Less is more?

    Offline PlayBox

    • Posts: 199
    i think its in my budget now but knowing shipping and taxes these are gonna kill me so ill stick to frog tkl
    propably sent from my amazon kindle 10th gen

    Offline audax989

    • Posts: 961
    • Location: Guam
    • NOM NOM NOM
      • Guam Mechanical Keyboards
    any idea on the pricepoint?

    Offline PlayBox

    • Posts: 199
    any idea on the pricepoint?
    its there 350$ for alu version 400$ for brass version
    propably sent from my amazon kindle 10th gen

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    Hi all,

    After hearing some feedback, I have changed the placement of the logo at the back.
    Less is more?

    Offline suishibe

    • Posts: 13
    beautiful

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    Thanks! :)
    Less is more?

    Offline ReplicaJG

    • Posts: 2
    • Location: Sydney
    my fav board yet  :thumb:

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    tyty Jas!
    Less is more?

    Offline Surefoot

    • Posts: 454
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #60 on: Sat, 25 March 2023, 14:29:17 »
    I had the same doubt when I designed this. After testing I don't think brass bottom is the main reason for pinging noise. From my experience, the pinging noise is mainly from uneven fitting between metal cases, I tried this mod from 3ildcat's video for my Kei and most of the pinging disappeared.
    Link: https://youtube.com/shorts/VSMdbEgdvQ4?feature=share
    I wonder when custom keyboard designers will include that trick in their case designs - when I first thought of adding gaskets to a case that was the idea, not for the plate but for the case. It will indeed produce a much more solid sound.

    Offline Stanced

    • Posts: 15
    • Location: Utah
    any time line on groupbuy?

    Offline WoobEC

    • Posts: 47
    • Location: Spain
      • Eloquent Clicks
    This is great






    Offline diyachronic

    • Posts: 16
    Project looks great! How much does each version of the keyboard weigh?

    Offline OhNyne

    • Posts: 7
    Would a hotswap pcb be offered?

    Offline involuntarysoul

    • Posts: 185
    please have raw alu version, would really make this board stand out


    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    Re: [IC] Orbit 65% - Curved, Silicon Pin Top Mount, 17mm Front Height
    « Reply #66 on: Mon, 03 April 2023, 19:09:05 »
    I had the same doubt when I designed this. After testing I don't think brass bottom is the main reason for pinging noise. From my experience, the pinging noise is mainly from uneven fitting between metal cases, I tried this mod from 3ildcat's video for my Kei and most of the pinging disappeared.
    Link: https://youtube.com/shorts/VSMdbEgdvQ4?feature=share
    I wonder when custom keyboard designers will include that trick in their case designs - when I first thought of adding gaskets to a case that was the idea, not for the plate but for the case. It will indeed produce a much more solid sound.

    With the addition of several extra screws in V2, the break-force mod has become unnecessary. However, it is evident that this mod could greatly enhance the sound of cases that lack sufficient screws connecting the top and bottom cases.
    Less is more?

    Offline Stanced

    • Posts: 15
    • Location: Utah
    Do you have a timeline when the GB might be?


    Offline OhNyne

    • Posts: 7
    Maybe on the back of the case where it says " Machina" it could be kinda like the vegas weight  or think6.5 v3 where its color varies from the case itself. Just a thought though.

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    Hello hello, I updated some rendering here: https://imgur.com/a/FFaE7GB
    Less is more?

    Offline diyachronic

    • Posts: 16
    That copper bottom is stunning. Do you have an idea of how much the copper bottom would affect price compared to the brass bottom?

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    Still under discussion, but will announce GB details soon. :thumb:
    Less is more?

    Offline involuntarysoul

    • Posts: 185
    for the alu bottom, 4 separate weight seems to be alot of extra machining for not much gain, would it be more cost effective to have a single large weight?

    Offline hzh0525

    • Posts: 82
    • Location: New York, USA
    I will definitely buy a copper/brass bottom one!

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys
    for the alu bottom, 4 separate weight seems to be alot of extra machining for not much gain, would it be more cost effective to have a single large weight?

    Based on my experience, using four individual weights was more effective in eliminating internal noise compared to using a single weight. Additionally, arranging the four weights in a way that forms a star shape at the center aligns with the orbital theme being considered. Overall, I believe it is worth the extra cost.
    Less is more?

    Offline Wise Donkey

    • Posts: 22
    It's ashame the concentric circles are on the inside instead of on the outside. It's a beautiful form.

    Offline aicyborg

    • Posts: 308
    • Location: UK
    Kinda blows you couldn't get a UK/EU vendor for this, but I guess it's whatever.

    Offline rMxGTR

    • Posts: 8
    • Location: PST
    Is there a way to get raw top with copper bottom?

    Offline Akele

    • Posts: 108
    Is there a way to get raw top with copper bottom?

    Ra66it_AU is running a poll on Discord asking if people have an interest a raw alu top + copper/brass bottom config. May be worth voting in that if you haven't done so. It's certainly the config I'd like to buy.

    Offline Ra66it_AU

    • Thread Starter
    • Posts: 54
    • Location: Sydney, Australia
      • Najakeys


      Orbit
      Designed by Machina
      UPDATE 30-04-23
      Prices, color options, vendors, and more! Going in to GB soon



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      Hello there, I am Ra66it from Australia. Introducing my first keyboard project Orbit by Machina, a 65% silicon pin mounting style keyboard.

      I have been wanting a 65% keyboard ever since I tried the tadpole mounting on Frog TKL. Started last year as a personal project, I received my first prototype this October.


      The main idea of the design is to keep the keyboard as slim as possible. Internally, trying to make a clean-sounding keyboard with the least amount of foam.

      The external curves and internal weight pattern give me an astronomy vibe, I hope this keyboard is also in your orbit :)
      The look of this keyboard is influenced by the HHKB series (HG variant and Pro2).



      IC FORM: https://forms.gle/pCphkNEkyidLt7gPA

      DISCORD LINK: https://discord.gg/KZ7axT7zKg

      INSTAGRAM LINK: https://www.instagram.com/machina.syd/





      0. CONTENTS

      1.DETAILS
      2.VENDOR
      3.PRICE & SALES DETAILS
      4MEDIA
      5.COLOR RENDER
      6.LAYOUT
      7.PHOTO
      8.DESIGN CHANGELOG
      9.PROJECT STATUS
      10.TYPING TEST





      1.DETAILS

      - Typing angle 7.0°
      - Front height: 17mm
      - Mounting style: Silicon pin/ Tadpole ( 3 hardness options)
      - Screwless exterior design (detachable silicon feet hiding all the screws at the bottom)
      - PCB: Inhouse design with USB-C daughterboard - configurable with QMK/VIA, hotswap, and solder option available.
      - Will come with a matching carrying case
      - Weight:  1.5kg/3.3 lbs built for Aluminium Version
                     2.5kg/5.5 lbs built for Brass/Copper Version
      - Materials:
           - Aluminium Top Case
           - Two bottom case designs:
           - Full PVD Aluminium Bottom Case with 4 internal brass weights
           - Full Brass Bottom Case with clear coat finish
           - Anodized/ E-coated Aluminium Bottom Case (NEW ADDED as IC form suggests)
           - Color Renders: https://imgur.com/a/FFaE7GB

         




      2.VENDOR

      AU: www.najakeys.com
      South Korea: Geonworks https://geon.works/
      Rest of the world: www.machina.mx






      3.PRICE & SALES DETAILS

      Sale Format: GB (May 2023)
      Color Renders: https://imgur.com/a/FFaE7GB
      Price
      • Anodized Top Case + Anodized Bottom Case                                $349
      • Anodized Top Case + Aluminium PVD Bottom Case                       $389
      • Anodized Top Case + Full Brass Bottom Case (clear E-coated)       $399
      • Anodized Top Case + Full Copper Bottom Case (clear E-coated)     $439
      • All Raw Aluminium Top & Bottom Cases (clear E-coated)               $369
      • Hotswap                                                                                   +$10
      • E-coat                                                                                      +$20
      * Prices in USD
      ** By default, comes with a full aluminium plate, 70A hardness silicon pins, 1.6mm PCB, and no flex cut on either PCB or plate.

      IC form here: https://forms.gle/pCphkNEkyidLt7gPA
      Added options for raw finish and copper in IC form





      4.MEDIA
      Lightning Keyboards Build VOD: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MbM91RubDVk
      Alexotos
      DBOkeys
      Avi
      LightningKeyboards
      Keybored
      NearLucid
      Geon
      Makerchun
      * will update here once videoes are available

      Show Image




      5.COLOR RENDER
      More Color Renders: https://imgur.com/a/FFaE7GB
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      6.LAYOUT

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      7.PHOTO
      V1 Prototype photos
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      V2 PHOTO
      UPDATE 06-02-23
      V2 Prototype photos
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      8.DESIGN CHANGELOG
      V1 Prototype
      - 1.2mm PCB with flex cut
      - 4 screws between the top and bottom case
      - 4 separate rubber feet

      V2 Prototype
      - 1.6mm PCB with no flex cut
      - 8 screws between the top and bottom case
      - Changed to 2 long rubber feet instead of 4
      - Testing Brass Patina
      - Quality of life changes to the PCB
      - Silicon pin positions redesigned

      V2.5 Prototype
      - Can confirm 1.6mm PCB without flex cut is better.
      - Keeping 8 screws between the top and bottom case.
      - Keeping the bezels as slim as V1.
      - Redo long rubber feet molding. (failed last time)
      - Testing Brass Patina (ongoing process)
      - Quality of life changes to the PCB (ongoing process)

      V2 Prototype Exploded View
      Show Image





      9.PROJECT STATUS [GOING INTO GB SOON]


      V1 Log
      More
      After typing with V1 proto for a month, overall I am happy with the look and typing feel, the typing experience is firm but not stiff, and the 50A silicon pins allow some bounciness in the board. Personally, I always build my keyboards with plate foam, it reduces those tiny noises and still keeps the characteristics of the board. The sound is quite clean without case foam, more on the clacky side. I bearly noticed any hollowness, but it is a bit loud for my liking.

      For the V2 proto, the goal is to keep the sound profile more isolated. I added more screws between the two cases and lengthen the rubber feet, hopefully, it can reduce resonance between the metal pieces, and the thickness of the top case has been increased by 1mm to make the sound more isolated.

      Red arrows indicate the newly added screw holes, the placement won't affect how the space bar sound.

      Show Image

      One thing I am currently testing is the patina on the brass bottom, I have included the photo in the IC form, please feel free to check it out and leave some feedback. If you are a patina artist who enjoys my design, please please reach out to me.


      V2 Log
      More
      V2! Lots of good news, all the changes made seem promising.
      In this round, all materials have raw finishes and I really enjoy the colours, considering adding that as a GB option.
      You may notice that the V2 bezels are slightly thicker than V1, but I prefer V1 bezels more after putting them side by side, will change that back next round.
      see the comparison here:
      Show Image


      Overall the design is final now, the next round (Proto V2.5) will be the final round, mainly for review units.
      I will lock in all the case colours, materials, and finishes after the next round. Please fill in the IC form if you want to share your opinion.

       



      V2.5 Log

      UPDATE 30-04-23
      After hearing some feedback, I have changed the placement of the logo at the bottom.
      Show Image


      Currently all the review units have been sent out, and more content will be released next month, meanwhile, collecting community feedback before we go GB in May. 







      10.TYPING TEST

      ProtoV1 Plate foam only


      I overlubed my left shift lol

      ProtoV2 Sound Test [NO FOAM]

      Lightning Keyboards Build VOD:





      Thank you all for reading till the end!



      Vincent - Special thanks for the amazing photos!
      https://www.youtube.com/@vincentchen1985

      Eureka Foundry - Much much love for the stunning work from you guys! amazed by the quality of the prototypes.
      The feedback on my design really helped me in the early stage.
      https://www.eurekafoundry.com/

      ANZKEEB - Shoutout to my keeb mates, I won't be able to make this without your guys!
      Show Image


      [/list]
      Less is more?

      Offline Ra66it_AU

      • Thread Starter
      • Posts: 54
      • Location: Sydney, Australia
        • Najakeys
      Is there a way to get raw top with copper bottom?
      Yes!
      Less is more?

      Offline Ra66it_AU

      • Thread Starter
      • Posts: 54
      • Location: Sydney, Australia
        • Najakeys
      The date for the GB is set on 28th May.
      Let's goooooo!
      Less is more?

      Offline fzlo

      • Posts: 14
      Is there a way to get raw top with copper bottom?
      Yes!

      nice! best combo! also red and copper will be a banger

      Offline aicyborg

      • Posts: 308
      • Location: UK
      The date for the GB is set on 28th May.
      Let's goooooo!

      Any chance of more regional vendors? One for the UK would be really appreciated. I've been trying to get people here locally to fill out your IC form doing that, seems to have been ignored...

      Offline The Real Omar

      • Posts: 1
      Please offer that Anodize brown as a top color!

      Offline yiuoterw

      • Posts: 10
      • Location: Eugene, OR
      • i love wasting money
      Woah, the machining on the internal of the weight looks awesome! Reminds me of something making ripples in water.
      new owlabs board when?

      Offline vtachkov

      • Posts: 205
      Probably too late at this point but any chance of offering brass/copper plates?

      Offline malignant narcissism

      • Posts: 17
      • Location: Denver
      • sus
      Ordered charcoal with a copper bottom. I'm pretty hype on this board so hope it doesn't let me down!
      oh hi mark

      Offline Ra66it_AU

      • Thread Starter
      • Posts: 54
      • Location: Sydney, Australia
        • Najakeys
      GB opens!
      Less is more?

      Offline garrdub

      • Posts: 4
      I really really like this. Might go for the raw copper with the silver top. Great price for full copper and brass booty as well.

      Seems like the GB is going well so far, are you close to reaching the soft limit yet?

      Offline Ra66it_AU

      • Thread Starter
      • Posts: 54
      • Location: Sydney, Australia
        • Najakeys
      2 weeks to go!
      Less is more?

      Offline synthetics

      • Posts: 34
      • Location: nyc
      • very cool
      Just learned about this board a few days ago, I'm late to the GH thread. Cool design, I like a lot of the little details here, glwgb!

      Offline Ra66it_AU

      • Thread Starter
      • Posts: 54
      • Location: Sydney, Australia
        • Najakeys
      Updated some video links  ;)
      Less is more?

      Offline Groom

      • Posts: 27
      I love the curve in side view! and the feeling like hhkb og.

      Offline sketch3v

      • Posts: 28
      • Sketch
        • Astro
      would be cool to see the same design style on the visible part of the keyboard. I also love these cute gasket feet  ;D