October 2024 / pt. 2
Our second October update on the KNOB / k•no•b•1 is all about parts. We recently received the CNC aluminum top and bottom shells, plate, PCB, screen glass, and screen components.
We designed and developed an assembly system that results in zero visible screws on the exterior. And it works great as you can see with our very scientific and rigorous shake test.
We also are seeing some slight bowing coming from the bottom plate. So we are making some internal revisions to make the top and bottom plate even more secure.
The switch plate design needs to be updated with a slight tweak to accommodate the new screen component. The plate you see here doesn't have the proper gaps for the cable to attach to the PCB. The new plate is coming soon!
We also have 3D printed some gaskets that interface with the plate to test the fit and everything is looking good.
Learning from the Nomad-E, the magnets will be getting better adhesives so that they stick properly to the detachable feet.
The rubberized nubs that come from the silicone pad inside will be getting an size upgrade and a mushroom-like tip so that they protrude properly from the bottom.
Work continues on the firmware as well as the keyset. Here is a look at the first run of the keyset with the colors and legends in place.
We are on-target to start shipping sometime in December 2024 barring any complications.
October 2024
Prototype parts are starting to arrive and work on the firmware will begin shortly. We have the sample PCB and display on-hand. And you can see the CNC Aluminum top shell samples in the photo below.
Since we have the PCB, we will start developing and testing the firmware with Input right away. We expect it to take about 1-1.5 months to get a stable firmware version with all the promised features.
Also, we recently opened up pre-orders for the standalone keyset k•no•b•sans, which is projected to ship in Q4 2024.
July 2024
We’ve been hard at work applying all the learning from the Nomad E development to the k•no•b•1. I’m happy to say we have started production of the keycap molds, and have already paid in advance for the production of all keycap to ensure priority at the factory.
In the videos below, you'll see the test mold and then the final molds being produced. The keycaps you see in the photos here are from our test mold.
Starting with copper counter molds, these are used to erode steel in the production molds. The copper turns black from carbonization after they have been used for production. Next we will be working on getting the PCBs prototyped and refining the machining issue we had with the design of the internals of the top shell.
Next we will be working on getting the PCBs prototyped and refining the machining issue we had with the design of the internals of the top shell.
Fulfillment for the k•no•b•1 is now targeting Fall 2024.
May 2024
Development of the k•no•b•1 is going well. We recently sent off the full CAD files to our production partners for testing and quotes. These include revisions made to the gasket system, enclosure with zero visible screws, and more!
One of the nice things about the production of the KNOB1 is that it shares the same micro chip and configurator as the Nomad E uses. This means we won’t have to go creating totally new firmware and software. Below you can see we are using a gasket mounting system for this build – this will offer even better acoustics, and a bit more spring in the typing experience.
We will be running CNC prototypes this month, and are even aiming to have the samples with us at Config, Figma’s design conference in San Francisco the week of June 24th.
