geekhack
geekhack Community => Ergonomics => Topic started by: taako on Sun, 07 June 2020, 23:36:59
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I am designing a keyboard primarily based on Kinesis Advantage 2. I am going to be using flexible PCB like the actual
Advantage2 to get the bowl shape but might add in a few more keys like where the Ergodox places them.
I am considering re-designing the thumb clusters but want to know what would be the best alternative.
The two biggest alternatives i'm thinking of are:
- Thumb arcs like Keyboardio
- Clusters on a sloped opposable plane like the Manuform
Any other designs i should consider?
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- Thumb arcs like Keyboardio
- Clusters on a sloped opposable plane like the Manuform
This is exactly what I wanted to say.
I guess the best option would be manuform main cluster with a clay (or detatchable 3d printed) thumb cluster to experiment and find what suits you best. Come to think of it - a detachable thumb cluster would have the added advantage of being easily changeable later on. You will most likely want to change something in the long term...
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I think maltron/kinesis thumb clusters are best if you use significantly higher keycaps on more far away keys. The movement down is easier for me than pressing to a side. And it is possible to fit more thumb keys in them and the keyboard can be flatter overall for easier moving around. For a completely flat keyboard the thumb arc is probably the best.
Oobly has a nice version of opposing thumb clusters:
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=49721.msg1077640#msg1077640