Isla60% o-ring gasket mounted keyboard
Discord for updates:
https://discord.gg/eGnjxGxIC form for plate materials:
https://forms.gle/oodX6wx4M76ExVX47
The design:
As the Isla is my first foray into keyboard design, I’ve tried to keep things externally as simple and classy as possible. The design is heavily inspired by the OTD Koala as some of you may notice, featuring its signature side profile and uniform bezels. I’ve kept the weight fully internal to not compromise the aesthetics on the outside. As for the name, there’s not really a story; it’s named after someone I knew when I was younger.
Status:Second prototype has been ordered. A number of changes has been made which is documented on page 2 of the thread. Once this is received and confirmed functional, the GB will soon follow.
Pictures:New prototype ordered, pending update.
Details:Vendor:
prototypist.netTyping angle: 4.5 degrees
Front height: ~18mm
Colours: wine red (RAL 3005), deep navy (Pantone 282C), black
Layout compatibility:
https://imgur.com/zkdndIZ (6.25 + 7.00 bottom rows, split spacebar, split r-shift, stepped caps lock, split backspace - ANSI only)
Sale format: FCFS
Units: TBD based on factory quote closer to GB - hoping to do around 200
Price: TBD, once again based on factory quote closer to GB
GB date: shortly after 2nd proto has been confirmed functional
Mounting:This keyboard has an o-ring between the PCB and plate, which acts as a gasket. The board can be mounted using friction (without screws), or as a tray mount using screws on the 4 tray posts. Examples of this mounting can be found on the TGR x Singa Unikorn, and Moontower by atxkb. This leads to a relatively flexy and comfortable typing experience, as well as what is in my opinion a nice sound.
As the keyboard will be flexing a decent amount I’ve used a daughterboard so that this isn’t a problem. The USB port has a very nice, tidy fit with plenty of room for all your cable needs.
The kit:- aluminium case
- aluminium plate
- brass weight
- h60 PCB by hineybush (QMK/VIA support)
- daughterboard
- JST cable
- various screws (torx)
- 50A nitrile rubber o-ring
- bump-ons
Questions:Q: Poly?
A: No
Q: ISO?
A: No
Q: WKL? HHKB?
A: No
Q: Will this be compatible with other PCBs or plates?
A: PCB - possibly, though this has been designed around h60. Plate - possibly, but please be aware that this uses a south-facing enter stabiliser. I'll release the plate file post-GB.
Special thank-yous to:Jae: for agreeing to help me with this project back in May and bearing with my endless questions
Uliiam: for the fantastic engraving and support
Elaine: for the design advice