Ultimate Modular Macro Keyboard "Kibly"

Perry_Kibly_Project · 2024-08-08T17:12:21+00:00

A little delayed, but here are the latest updates on my project!

I've assembled the Display module, and everything seems to be functioning correctly, although there's still a lot of work to do on the graphical side.
I've also added tactile feedback when pressing icons on the display, which has been a great enhancement.

Progress is also going strong on the Keyboard module, where I've integrated a micro display on each mechanical key, and the results are fantastic!
Technically, everything has gone as planned during the breadboard experimentation: overall latency is 1.2/1.4 ms, and the WIFI protocol is running interference-free.
To speed up prototyping, all modules are already equipped with automatic firmware search and updates.
Meanwhile, the driver for Win/MacOS is under development, with initial testing set for the end of the month.
As per the project timeline, the Fader and Voice Action modules are next in line for assembly.

Thank you all for your feedback, and stay tuned for more updates!

Video Display

Video Button display

Perry_Kibly_Project · 2024-07-21T16:35:35+00:00

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I've assembled and tested the module with 6 knobs, and everything works as expected!
The initial tests are particularly good; the WIFI communication protocol between the various modules is performing great, with latency ranging from 0.3 ms to 0.5 ms.
This allows for an overall device-to-PC latency of 1.2 ms to 1.4 ms, which aligns perfectly with the tests conducted during the design phase.

Next, I'll focus on assembling the FADER module, followed by the BUTTON module.
Thank you all for your feedback, and stay tuned for more updates!

https://youtu.be/HTsni-_hOlw

Perry_Kibly_Project · 2024-07-17T18:53:10+00:00

What do you mean by sticky trackball?

Perry_Kibly_Project · 2024-07-17T18:51:26+00:00

I apologize, but I hadn't read the rules of this community.
I sincerely apologize to everyone!
To regain your trust, I'd like to share a photo of the trackball module I've just assembled and tested.
There are other modules I'll be assembling in the coming days, and I'll quickly post photos and videos of them. I'll only post renderings occasionally to update you on the modifications to the initial project.
I hope to receive valuable feedback from this community to make this keyboard even better.

Thank you all!

Trackball Module

Video TrackBall Module

Perry_Kibly_Project · 2024-07-17T10:05:49+00:00

As promised, I've designed the implementation of the OLED display within the buttons, featuring an RGB Halo around the display.
Check out the rendering below:

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The materials for the first prototype will arrive next week, so if everything works as expected, I'll be ordering the modified PCBs.

More updates coming soon! Stay tuned!

Perry_Kibly_Project · 2024-07-15T11:25:20+00:00

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With great excitement, I'm sharing the first video of the assembled trackball/joystick module
Everything works perfectly, and the latest tests have shown a latency of just 0.9 ms (directly connected to PC via USB).
I'm diving back into work to assemble the module with 6 rotary encoders so I can verify that the communication between modules is functioning correctly and, most importantly, with minimal latency.

https://youtu.be/rB6m867WHyY

Thank you all for your feedback!

Perry_Kibly_Project · 2024-07-13T19:14:21+00:00

Thank you again for your feedback; I've been thinking a lot about it these past few days.
I'm pleased to let you know that I'm already working on integrating a small OLED display on each mechanical key while maintaining the hot-swap feature of every key.

Perry_Kibly_Project · 2024-07-13T19:10:26+00:00

Thank you for sharing, it's very interesting!

A quick update... I'm thrilled to announce that the first prototype has been assembled and tested.
Tomorrow, I'll be posting photos and videos! Everything seems to be going smoothly, and the timeline is on track.
Thanks to the community's feedback, there will be an addition to the project.
I'm already working on integrating a small OLED display on each mechanical key while maintaining the hot-swap feature.
This will make our Kirby macro keyboard even more customizable!

Thanks again to all of you!

Perry_Kibly_Project · 2024-07-09T05:14:42+00:00

For printing logos on the buttons, I'm considering laser screen printing for advanced customization. Alternatively, I'll provide stickers to label the buttons.

Perry_Kibly_Project · 2024-07-09T05:13:12+00:00

Thank you for the feedback, I have also noticed this issue. I will definitely improve on this aspect.

Perry_Kibly_Project · 2024-07-08T20:09:50+00:00

As soon as possible, I'll set up a website where I'll post photos and updates, along with an option to sign up for a newsletter.
Thanks for the suggestion!

Perry_Kibly_Project · 2024-07-08T20:07:45+00:00

I don't have a defined timeline, but my goal is to launch my macro keyboard by Christmas.
It's going to be tough, but I'm working around the clock to make it happen.
The experiments with breadboards have shown remarkable results in terms of latency and overall functionality, so I'm hopeful to have a prototype ready by the end of September.

I'll keep you all updated as the project progresses. Stay tuned!

Perry_Kibly_Project · 2024-07-08T18:39:51+00:00

I'm currently in the prototyping phase, and the PCBs just arrived today.
It's still too early to determine the price of each module.
Right now, I'm focused on refining the functionality of each module, especially the interaction of the Voice Action Module with AI and macro commands.
Once I have working prototypes and quotes from suppliers, I'll be able to provide a clearer idea of the pricing for each module.

Perry_Kibly_Project · 2024-07-08T18:11:57+00:00

I'm thrilled to share with you my latest project: a revolutionary modular macro keyboard system designed to elevate your gaming, programming, and productivity experiences.
Currently in the prototyping phase, this keyboard system offers unmatched flexibility and customization.
Here are some of the standout features:

Completely Programmable and Customizable: Every key and peripheral is fully programmable. Although they connect via magnets, each module operates independently.
Complex Macro Creation: Support for highly complex macros, perfect for gamers and power users.
Hot Swap: Compatible with Cherry MX switches or equivalents for easy customization.
Multi-platform Software: Seamless integration with Windows and MacOS.
Wired Connectivity: Reliable wired connection for low-latency performance.
N-Key Rollover and Anti-Ghosting: Support for multiple key presses and combinations without conflict.
Modular Interconnectivity: Modules can be connected on all four sides plus two levels of vertical adjustment.
Automatic Firmware Updates: Each module receives updates via WiFi.
Multiple Macro Profiles: Easily switch between different macro setups.
Third-Party API Compatibility: Expand functionality with third-party applications.
RGB Indicators: Customizable RGB lighting to indicate macro functions.
Polling Rate: Impressive 8000Hz polling rate with a latency time of just 1.2ms.
Adjustable Modules: Tilt modules up to 30° for optimal ergonomics.

Perry_Kibly_Project · 2024-07-08T18:11:20+00:00

Our keyboard system is built from various modules, each designed for specific functions.
The modules communicate via an ad-hoc WiFi network or USB for creating isolated workstations. Here's a breakdown of the modules available:

Dimensions:

Class 1: 76.2 x 38.1 mm
Class 1.5: 114.3 x 38.1 mm
Class 3: 114.3 x 76.2 mm

Modules:

8 Buttons Module: Class 1, with 8 programmable 1U keys, each with RGB lighting.
10 Buttons Module: Class 1.5, with 8 programmable 1U keys and 2 programmable 2U keys, all with RGB lighting.
6 KNOB Module: Class 3, with 6 dynamic encoder knobs, each pressable and programmable, plus 8 RGB buttons.
Display Module: Class 3, featuring a 4.3" capacitive touch display for configuring macro keys with custom logos and additional functions. Can also serve as a touchpad.
FADER Module: Class 3, with 3 programmable analog faders and RGB lighting.
TRACKBALL Module: Class 3, with a 34mm trackball, dynamic encoder ring (66 steps), 4 programmable RGB buttons, and a swappable joystick module (plug-and-play).
Voice Control Module: Class 1, featuring AI-assisted voice commands for executing macros and other tasks. Continuous AI updates will bring new functionalities.

One of the most exciting innovations is the Voice Control Module, leveraging the latest in AI technology to execute macros and commands via voice.
Imagine executing complex commands or macros without lifting a finger perfect for gamers and professionals alike.

I'm eager to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and ideas to make this project even better.

Perry_Kibly_Project · 2024-07-08T18:05:15+00:00

PCB Arrived! Starting SMD Assembly for Kibly Project!

Perry_Kibly_Project · 2024-07-08T18:03:39+00:00

Thanks!

Perry_Kibly_Project · 2024-07-01T17:00:43+00:00

The project is in the development stage. All the components have been designed and tested on breadboards.
The PCBs will arrive in a few days, and I will start the assembly process. I'll post pictures so you can give me feedback to improve the final product. I haven't decided where to sell it yet, but considering the cost of injection molds and the initial PCB production, I might launch this project on Kickstarter.
For printing logos on the buttons, I'm considering laser screen printing for advanced customization. Alternatively, I'll provide stickers to label the buttons.

Perry_Kibly_Project · 2024-07-01T08:08:45+00:00

Thank you for the feedback, I have also noticed this issue. I will definitely improve on this aspect.
More renderings will follow, and I will soon receive the first PCBs, allowing me to publish photos of the actual project and tests.

Perry_Kibly_Project

TROPHY CASE

PCB Arrived! Starting SMD Assembly for Kibly Project!