Custom Ergonomic Split Keyboard

Custom
Ergonomic
Split
Keyboard
This presentation explores the design and development
of a custom ergonomic split keyboard, focusing on
Building
improving typing comfort and reducing strain.
by Hardik Sharma
Introduction
1 Keyboards in Daily Life 2 Ergonomic Challenges 3 Split Keyboards as a
Traditional keyboards can Solution
Keyboards are essential Split keyboards offer a more
tools for communication, lead to discomfort and ergonomic design,
work, and entertainment. strain in the wrists and promoting natural hand
hands. positioning.
Background & Need for
Customization
1 History of Staggering
The Staggered layout originated from
Typewriters and has remained largely
unchanged.
2 Need for Better Ergonomics

The Staggered layout can contribute to
Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs).
3 Mechanical Split Keyboards

Mechanical Split Keyboards offer improved
typing experience and durability.
Purpose of the Project
1 Custom Ergonomic Design
This project aims to design a custom split keyboard for
enhanced comfort.
2 Reduced Strain
The design prioritizes reducing strain on wrists and
hands.
3 Integration of Mechanical Switches

Mechanical switches provide a tactile and responsive
typing experience.
Scope of the Project
Improve Ergonomic & PCB Designing & Firmware Building &

Comfort Manufacturing Flashing
In this project we will

The PCB design is created The keyboard will be built
explore how we can
using KiCad software. using ZMK Firmware.
improve the way we type.
Ergonomics in
Keyboard Design
1 Importance of Ergonomic Design
Ergonomic design aims to minimize strain and
promote comfort.
2 Key Factors
Hand/wrist positioning, key accessibility, and
typing angle are crucial.
Split Keyboard Concept
Fixed Split KeyboardsAdjustable Split Tented Split Keyboards

Keyboards
Tented split keyboards have an
Fixed split keyboards have a Adjustable split keyboards
upward angle to promote a
set angle and distance allow users to customize the
more natural hand position.
between the halves. angle and distance.
Staggered Layout
1 2 Advantages
History and Definition 3 Limitations
The staggered layout is Familiarity and widespread Hand movement

the traditional keyboard use are advantages of the inefficiency and ergonomic
layout. staggered layout. concerns are limitations.
Ortholinear Layout
Definition and Key Characteristics

The ortholinear layout arranges keys in a grid
pattern.
Ergonomic Benefits
Natural finger movement and reduced
strain are benefits of the ortholinear layout.
Comparison with Staggered Layout

The ortholinear layout offers a more
ergonomic alternative to the staggered layout.
Comparative Analysis of Layouts
Staggered Layout Ortholinear Layout
• Familiar design widely used in

traditional keyboards.
• Higher hand movement efficiency due
to staggered key placement.
• User preference often leans towards
familiarity. Performance metrics
indicate moderate typing speed.
• Error rates can be higher due to hand
positioning.
• Keys arranged in a grid for natural finger
movement.
• Promotes better ergonomic posture
reducing strain.
• User preference is increasing among
tech-savvy individuals.
• Performance metrics show improved
typing speed.
• Lower error rates linked to reduced finger
movement.
Custom PCB Design
1 Importance of PCB
The PCB serves as the foundation of the keyboard,
connecting all components and facilitating signal
transmission.
2 Introduction to KiCad
KiCad is a powerful open-source software used for
designing custom PCBs, offering a user-friendly interface
and comprehensive features.
3 Key Features of KiCad

KiCad provides tools for schematic creation, PCB layout,
routing, and simulation, enabling efficient and effective
PCB design.
Designing the PCB
1 Schematic Creation
The first step involves creating a schematic diagram,
defining the connections between components and the
overall functionality of the keyboard.
2 Routing
The schematic is then translated into a PCB layout, where
traces are routed to connect components and ensure
proper signal flow.
3 Signal Optimization
Signal integrity is crucial for optimal keyboard
performance, requiring careful routing and component
placement to minimize noise and interference.
Designing the PCB
1 Schematic Creation
The first step involves creating a schematic diagram,
defining the connections between components and the
overall functionality of the keyboard.
2 Routing
The schematic is then translated into a PCB layout, where
traces are routed to connect components and ensure
proper signal flow.
3 Signal Optimization
Signal integrity is crucial for optimal keyboard
performance, requiring careful routing and component
placement to minimize noise and interference.
Mechanical Key Switches
Overview of Different Switch Types Advantages of
Mechanical Mechanical
LINEAR SWITCHES provide a
Keyboards Switches
Mechanical keyboards offer a smooth and consistent feel, Mechanical switches are
superior typing experience TACKTILE SWITCHES offer a known for their durability,
compared to traditional distinct bump for each customization options, and
membrane keyboards, keystroke, and CLICKY the ability to withstand
providing a tactile feedback SWITCHES combine a tactile millions of keystrokes.
and a more responsive feel. bump with an audible click.
Prototyping & Testing
Prototyping
The PCB design is fabricated and assembled
into a prototype keyboard, allowing for initial
testing and evaluation.
Ergonomics Testing
The prototype is tested for comfort, ease of use,
and the overall ergonomic design, ensuring a
comfortable typing experience.
Performance Testing
The keyboard's performance is evaluated,
including keystroke responsiveness, latency,
and overall functionality.
Manufacturing Considerations
Design Preparation
The PCB design is finalized and production-ready, ensuring
compliance with industry standards.
Component Sourcing
Components such as switches, MCUs, and connectors are
sourced from trusted suppliers, focusing on cost and
availability.
Cost Optimization
Production costs are optimized by choosing cost-effective
components and processes without sacrificing quality.
Material Selection
Material selection for the PCB, key switches, keycaps, and
components is key to durability, performance, and quality
Applications of Split Keyboards
Professional Use
Split keyboards improve ergonomics and reduce RSI risk for
typists, programmers & data-entry professionals.
Gaming
Gamers prefer split keyboards for customizable layouts,
enabling efficient key mappings and greater comfort during
long sessions.
Medical and Research Professionals

Split keyboards reduce hand and wrist strain for professionals
who spend long hours inputting data.
Creative Fields
Designers and video editors use split keyboards for custom
shortcuts, streamlining workflows and reducing hand strain.
Challenges & Future Work
Learning Curve Adapting to a new keyboard layout can be challenging, requiring

time and practice to achieve optimal typing speed and accuracy.
The cost of split keyboards is typically higher than traditional

Cost keyboards due to their specialized design, customizable features,
and higher-quality components.
Future work includes exploring improved customization options,

Future Enhancements incorporating advanced materials for enhanced durability and
performance, and developing innovative features.
Conclusion
Summary of Findings
The project successfully demonstrated the feasibility of designing and developing a
custom ergonomic split keyboard, highlighting the benefits of this design approach.
Benefits of Custom Ergonomic Split Keyboards

Custom ergonomic split keyboards offer a more comfortable typing experience,
reduced strain on wrists and hands, and improved typing accuracy.
Potential for Future Innovations

The project has paved the way for future innovations in keyboard design, exploring
advanced features, materials, and customization options.

Custom Ergonomic Split Keyboard

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Custom

2 Need for Better Ergonomics

3 Mechanical Split Keyboards

3 Integration of Mechanical Switches

Improve Ergonomic & PCB Designing & Firmware Building &

In this project we will

Fixed Split KeyboardsAdjustable Split Tented Split Keyboards

The staggered layout is Familiarity and widespread Hand movement

Definition and Key Characteristics

Comparison with Staggered Layout

• Familiar design widely used in

3 Key Features of KiCad

Medical and Research Professionals

Learning Curve Adapting to a new keyboard layout can be challenging, requiring

The cost of split keyboards is typically higher than traditional

Future work includes exploring improved customization options,

Benefits of Custom Ergonomic Split Keyboards

Potential for Future Innovations

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