Color Chording Keyboard

Problem: design a text entry device, including both hardware and software, to be able to input the lowercase alphabet and a space character. This design should not use more than 10 input switches

Design Solution: using chording of keys to output respective combinations, indicated in the enclosure design through color matching

For: Interactive Device Design, UC Berkeley Masters

Special Consideration: switch debouncing in code, ergonomic layout

Hardware Used: Redbear Duo

 

Chord Design

 

Screen Shot 2016-09-13 at 1.40.53 PM.png

 

Switch Layout 

Screen Shot 2016-09-13 at 1.41.37 PM.png

 

Enclosure Design (laser cut file)

 

Screen Shot 2016-09-13 at 1.42.38 PM.png

 

Prototype Enclosure

Screen Shot 2016-09-13 at 1.51.12 PM.png

 

Screen Shot 2016-09-13 at 1.51.48 PM.png

Final Product

 

Screen Shot 2016-09-14 at 9.56.48 PM.png

 

Notes:

  • Wire management was done using copper tape to concentrate all connections on one side
  • Switches were then covered with keys for aesthetic purposes
  • Prototype code includes a delay to account for user lag in pressing simultaneous keys

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