HandyWork, an ergo keyboard for the Framework 16

Creators & Developers Input Module
1

Hello,

I share with you a work in progress to design ergo keyboards for the FW16 using One Key Modules:

8 different layouts that fit in the A1 design space of the FW16 are proposed, from a small 5x3 36 keys Miryoku-compatible, up to a “large” 6x4 50 keys for those allergic to layers. I also included options like additional modifiers keys, or a central nav cluster.

Each layout has a printable version for you to try. You can also find generated YAML files usable with ergogen, and JSON files for keyboard layout editor, if you want to play around with the layouts and propose some ideas.

I don’t intend to support all the variations. Therefore, I would like the community to voice its opinion on what you deem necessary in an ergo layout on a laptop. The goal is to reduce to 2 or 3 layouts (at least for that first design wave).

Some of the proposed layouts:
5x3

5x3
5x31056×435 86.8 KB

5x3 with extra modifier keys, and central nav cluster

5x3-with-mods-with-nav
5x3-with-mods-with-nav1081×435 101 KB

5x4

5x4
5x41081×439 107 KB

6x3

6x3
6x31083×435 96.7 KB

6x4

6x4
6x41083×435 116 KB

8 Likes
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Very much looking forward to seeing this!!!

1 Like
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Very cool! I will cast my vote for the 5x3.

Are these something you plan to offer for sale? I would be very likely to order one if so!

2 Likes
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Thanks for your input!

Nothing decided yet for commercial production. I would say it will depends if there is enough traction for it.

Though, if there is only a little demand then it might actually be feasible to do a few by hands in an artisanal way ;-).

1 Like
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I have been waiting for a keyboard like this. If this gets released, I am liable to buy a framework 16 and finally move my desktop to be a gaming server lol.

I currently use a dactyl manuform, with a full thumb cluster, so lots of keys. Its a 6x5. I love it.

For the laptop I could see myself going with a 5x3, 5x3 w/ mods, and a 6x3… I’d have to think about it for a bit.

Number row is nice, but I could get used to making a few layers…

You should make some 3d printed models, for users to print and try out on their own. or even print out on a piece of paper, where they can print it to scale.

1 Like
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As someone with both a 54 key (6x4) and a 15x5 uniboard, I personally think a 16-18x5 would have a lot more buy in/universal appeal. Having the extra keys mean that people who need the extra keys aren’t discouraged, while those who dont can disable the keys they dont want. You get a similar amount of “split” by having

Another thing is splay and stagger are very personal choices which everyone have different preferences. I think if you are planning to support 2 options, a 36-42 key for the hardcore users, and a ortholinear as a gateway drug for everyone else.