Simplifying the mechanical keyboard
Not So Fun Fact
Adobe Aero is not stable enough for reliable AR prototyping
Key challenges
Mechanical keyboards have increased in popularity in recent years, but the hobby can be hard for beginners to pick up. Choosing the right parts, assembling, and repairing mechanical keyboards can be a complex task, often leading to frustration and mistakes.
This barrier to entry discourages many from getting into the hobby.
The solution
Keycraft simplifies the process of building, modifying, and sharing keyboards using augmented reality.
From beginners to pros
Keycraft streamlines a lot of the assembly process, including surfacing part compatibility, and providing step-by-step installation guidance. New users can even connect with experienced hobbyists to chat, learn, and ask questions.
I created a modular keyboard model in Blender to use throughout the product and prototype using ARKit.
The model uses geometry nodes to instantiate each part of the keyboard as individually adjustable elements. This fully procedural approach allows Keycraft to generate a 3D model that adapts to the user's own keyboard.
AR biometrics
A key requirement was to design for augmented reality through and through, and part of that was imagining novel ideas for otherwise ordinary interactions. The result is a biometric interface that recognizes the unique patterns on each person's hands.
Work and play
Gaming is a big part of what makes mechanical keyboards so popular. To match this demographic, users can create a custom avatar using generative AI.
