Corne Version 4

[foostan]

Summary

This PR details the design changes in the latest version of the Corne Keyboard. I intentionally abandoned backward compatibility to achieve technological advancement and design updates. Changes include fine-tuning the key pitch, MCU alteration, TRRS jack and LED design improvements, the addition of expansion options, and the introduction of a new dedicated case.

Images

Corne Cherry

Corne Chocolate

Major Design Changes

Changes from v3

Abandonment of Backward Compatibility The new version deliberately abandons backward compatibility with past models to enhance design freedom and aim for technological progress and design updates. This decision, while difficult due to its incompatibility with third-party cases, was deemed necessary for future development.

Major Design Changes

• Change in Key Pitch
• Departure from ProMicro
• Change in TRRS Jack Parts
• Abolition of Underground LEDs

In the new version, the key pitch has been adjusted from 19mm to 19.05mm to align with the dimensions of typical keyboards. Initially, the Corne design deviated from standard dimensions due to a lack of knowledge, but I have finally been able to correct this. Furthermore, replacing ProMicro with direct implementation of RP2040 on the PCB has improved the appearance and functionality of the product. The change in TRRS jack parts has also simplified the overall look of the keyboard. Additionally, the abolition of Underground (downward-facing) LEDs has been implemented for cost reduction and simplification.

Expansion

The space created by the removal of ProMicro has led to enhanced expandability for users. Continuous use of OLED displays, along with the possibility to add up to two expansion switches or rotary encoders, is now available. This allows users to customize their keyboards according to their needs, creating more unique and functional keyboards.

Dedicated Case

With advancements in 3D printing services, the new version also focuses on the design of a dedicated case. This case has a simple design and can be manufactured at a low cost. Users can easily customize the case to create their unique keyboards. These designs are published as open source, serving as references to foster creativity in the community and meet diverse needs.

Corne's Concept and Gratitude to the Community

Finally, the concept of Corne is to share the joy of creating keyboards and the possibility of designing them oneself, aiming to provide a foothold for users to design their original keyboards. I am deeply grateful that this project has continued much longer than imagined and has received support from many people. It is a great pleasure as the creator to see various individuals take an interest in this keyboard, assemble it themselves, and create new designs.

---

Summary

Corne Keyboardの最新バージョンの設計変更について詳述しています。後方互換性を意図的に放棄し、技術的進歩とデザインのアップデートを行いました。キーピッチの微調整、MCUの変更、TRRSジャックとLEDのデザイン改善、拡張オプションの追加、そして新しい専用ケースの導入が含まれます。

Changes from v3

後方互換性の破棄

この新バージョンは、過去のモデルとの後方互換性を意図的に捨てることで、設計の自由度を高め、技術的進歩とデザインのアップデート目指しました。これはサードパーティ製のケースとの互換性がなくなることでもあり苦渋な決断になりましたが、今後の発展に必要なものだと判断しました。

主要な変更

• キーピッチの変更
• ProMicroとの決別
• TRRSジャックの部品変更
• Underground LEDの廃止

新バージョンでは、キーピッチを19mmから19.05mmに変更し、一般的なキーボードの寸法に合わせています。Corneを設計した当初は一般的な寸法を知らなかったため異なっていましたがやっと修正できます。また、ProMicroの使用をやめ、RP2040をPCBに直接実装することで、製品の外観と機能性を向上させています。またTRRSジャックの部品変更により、キーボードの全体的な見た目がさらにシンプルになりました。さらに、Underground(下向き)のLEDを廃止することで、コスト削減と簡易化を行いました。

拡張性

ProMicroの廃止によって生まれたスペースは、ユーザーにとっての拡張性の向上を意味しています。OLEDディスプレイの継続的な使用に加え、最大2つの拡張スイッチやロータリーエンコーダーの追加が可能になりました。これにより、ユーザーは自分のニーズに合わせてキーボードをカスタマイズし、より個性的で機能的なキーボードを作成することができます。

専用ケース

3Dプリントサービスの進歩を背景に、新バージョンでは専用ケースの設計にも注力しています。このケースはシンプルなデザインで、低コストでの製造が可能です。またユーザーはケースを容易にカスタマイズし、自分だけの独特なキーボードを作成することができます。そして、これらのデザインはオープンソースとして公開され、コミュニティの創造性を促進し、さまざまなニーズに応えるためのリファレンスとして機能します。

Corneのコンセプトとコミュニティへの感謝

最後に、Corneのコンセプトは、キーボード作成の楽しさと自ら設計する可能性を共有することであり、ユーザーが自分だけのオリジナルキーボードを設計するための足掛かりとなることを目指しています。このプロジェクトが想像以上に長く続き、多くの人々に支持されていることに対して、深く感謝をしています。様々な方々がこのキーボードに興味を持ち、自ら組み立て、新しいデザインを生み出すことは、作者として嬉しい限りです。

[hisea]

the new version looks amazing.

are the pcb design finalized? I'm eager to make some and try

[BenRoe]

Is there reason why you stick to TRRS for split connection? USB-C seems to be the saver (shortage while plug/unplug) alternative.

[foostan]

@hisea The PCB design is almost fixed and I'm adjusting firmware and creating a prototype with the specific case. You can try it but, the design may change yet.

@BenRoe Thank you for your question. Type-C functions as a part that connects the left and right sides. However, there is a slight risk in using the same parts as those used for connecting to a PC. I don't think anyone would make a mistake, but since it can be connected, it is necessary to ensure the safety of the electrical circuit.

I also don't have the skills to do so, and I believe there are no best practices in the industry yet. I might change it again if I have a chance to make v5.

[NemockZans]

regarding the Type-C connection between the sides, in this build it is solved like this https://github.com/weteor/3W6 and the creator said in an interview he saveguarded against the danger of plugging it in to the PC connection, maybe you could reach out and he could help with that

[foostan]

Thank you for sharing. I'll reference if next time.

[astrolemonade]

I really hope this goes into the main branch. I had a hard time designing a case for the v3 corne choc. This is definitely better.

[allymparker]

Hey @foostan - Thank you for all the work you've done with Corne! I've used Corne variants as my daily driver for a couple of years now.

Other than the change in key pitch and the new extension points where the pro micro were, are there any other physical changes? Does the pcb have the same dimensions and stand-off placemetn as v3?

[foostan]

Since the key pitch has changed, the overall size has changed. The position of the through hole for the screw has also changed.

[astrolemonade]

@foostan can you also publish STEP files for the case, please? I would like to modify both the PCBs and the case since I have smaller fingers. (I am talking about this one:)

[foostan]

@astrolemonade I added it. Thank you for confirming.