Cosmos Keyboard is a project aiming to create a personalized keyboard based on a 3D scan of the user's hands. The scan data is used to generate a unique key layout and keycap profiles perfectly tailored to the user's hand shape and size. The goal is to improve typing ergonomics, comfort, and potentially speed by optimizing key positions and angles for individual hand physiology. The project is currently in the prototype phase and utilizes readily available 3D scanning and printing technology to achieve this customization.
Ryan Isenberg has embarked upon an ambitious project, christened the "Cosmos Keyboard," which aims to revolutionize personalized typing experiences. The core concept revolves around leveraging 3D scanning technology to meticulously capture the unique contours of an individual's hands. This detailed scan then serves as the foundational blueprint for generating a custom-designed keyboard, ergonomically optimized for the specific user. The envisioned process involves employing readily available 3D scanning applications, readily accessible on contemporary smartphones, to acquire a high-fidelity three-dimensional model of the user's hands in a relaxed, typing posture.
This digital representation is then processed by specialized software, developed by Isenberg, which algorithmically analyzes the hand shape, finger lengths, and overall hand proportions. This analysis informs the generation of a personalized keyboard layout, determining the optimal positioning and spacing of individual keys. The ultimate goal is to create a keyboard that perfectly complements the user's hand geometry, thereby promoting comfort, minimizing strain, and potentially enhancing typing speed and accuracy. The project is currently in its developmental stages, with Isenberg showcasing preliminary results and outlining his vision for the future of personalized keyboard design. He details the technical challenges involved, including ensuring scan accuracy, developing robust algorithms for key placement, and exploring various manufacturing techniques for the custom keyboards. While the final implementation details are still being refined, the Cosmos Keyboard project presents a compelling exploration of the intersection of 3D scanning, ergonomic design, and personalized computing peripherals. It promises a potential paradigm shift in how we interact with our digital devices, moving beyond the one-size-fits-all approach of traditional keyboards.
Summary of Comments ( 75 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42686144
Hacker News users discussed the Cosmos keyboard with cautious optimism. Several expressed interest in the customizability and ergonomic potential, particularly for those with injuries or unique hand shapes. Concerns were raised about the reliance on a phone's camera for scanning accuracy and the lack of key travel/tactile feedback. Some questioned the practicality of the projected keyboard for touch typing and the potential distraction of constantly looking at one's hands. The high price point was also a significant deterrent for many, with some suggesting a lower-cost, less advanced version could be more appealing. A few commenters drew comparisons to other projected keyboards and input methods, highlighting the limitations of similar past projects. Overall, the concept intrigued many, but skepticism remained regarding the execution and real-world usability.
The Hacker News post "Cosmos Keyboard: Scan your hand, build a keyboard" linking to ryanis.cool/cosmos/ generated a moderate amount of discussion with a range of perspectives on the project.
Several commenters expressed skepticism about the practicality and ergonomics of the keyboard. One commenter questioned the claimed typing speed improvements, suggesting that the learning curve and potential for hand strain might negate any benefits. Another raised concerns about the lack of tactile feedback, a feature considered crucial by many keyboard enthusiasts. The reliance on visual confirmation of keystrokes was also seen as a potential drawback, potentially slowing down typing and increasing eye strain.
The customizability aspect of the keyboard, while intriguing to some, was also met with skepticism. One commenter pointed out that achieving a truly optimal layout requires extensive experimentation and data analysis, a task that might be too daunting for most users. The potential for creating suboptimal layouts, leading to decreased typing speed and increased error rates, was also mentioned.
Some commenters questioned the necessity of the hand-scanning process. They argued that existing keyboard customization software already allows users to adjust layouts and key sizes without the need for 3D scanning.
Despite the skepticism, some commenters expressed interest in the project. The potential for creating a truly personalized keyboard that accommodates individual hand shapes and typing styles was seen as a compelling idea. One commenter suggested that the keyboard might be particularly beneficial for individuals with hand injuries or disabilities.
A few commenters focused on the technical aspects of the project. They inquired about the technology used for hand scanning and the algorithms used for generating the keyboard layout. There was also some discussion about the choice of materials and the manufacturing process.
Overall, the comments reflect a cautious but curious attitude towards the Cosmos keyboard. While the concept of a personalized, hand-scanned keyboard generated some excitement, many commenters expressed valid concerns about its practicality, ergonomics, and potential drawbacks.