Tidal60IC formThis is the first interest check for Tidal60, a 60% tray mount case with an integrated wrist rest. The case is a study in art and play embedded into the mechanical keyboard’s tactile experience. Its defining feature is a 231 cubic centimeter oceanscape. Machined from a custom resin puck, this sculpture is designed to evoke a sensory relationship with water while retaining ergonomic function. All pictures shown here are of the latest prototype.
Details (subject to change)
Overall case dimensions: 343mm x 188mm x 26mm
Combined case and wrist rest weight: ~0.9 kg.
Typing angle: 2.5 degrees
Mounting pattern: Universal 60% PCB pattern (designed using DZ60 by KBDfans for reference)
Case body materials: Acetal or ABS
Case body color: black
Wrist rest material: resin plastic
Wrist rest color: gradients of blue
Included with purchase:
- Case with integrated wrist rest (1x)
- ⅛ inch thick neoprene PCB foam (1x)
- Rubber feet (4x)
Estimated Price Point: $190 USD + shipping
Quantity: dependent upon interest
Schedule (subject to change)
Q4 2021
-Produce Beta prototype before interest check
Q1 2022
-Incorporate feedback from interest check into production design
-Finalize vendor selection, distribution channels, and quantity
Q2 2022
-Begin production run
-Update buyers throughout production process
Expecting to ship units in Q4 of 2022
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About the Creator and the ProcessMy name is Kamau, and I’m a product designer and engineer working in the San Francisco Bay Area. My background is primarily in the development of novel consumer products (robotic vacuums, kitchen appliances, etc.), and I’m passionate about crafting in its many forms.
Over the past year, I’ve developed and prototyped this case design in my home studio. My primary intent was to create an organic shape that pushed the capabilities of the 3D modeling tools and computer-controlled machinery currently available for individual use. I chose to emulate the surface of water because it is simply recognizable despite its underlying complexity. Though I’m still finalizing the oceanscape’s color palette, the design is mature enough to work with production houses for manufacturing at scale.
Special ThanksThis work could not have been done without the tremendous help of the following collaborators:
Annie Z.
Michael N.
Amanda L.
Travis L.
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