IV Works
Year
2020
Model
- Arashi
Build
- 2 weeks
If want it, make it.
I have always seen high-end keyboards when researching inspiration for product finishes. When I first saw the grail TGR Alice it was familiar and yet distinctive; its form was based on experience. All great design changes norm and establishes a new language – simple ideas done to perfection. I find myself very attracted to everyday tools that can challenge form and function.
I began to seek out an Alice to quickly learn they sell for thousands and thousands of dollars. I was shocked and tried to move on but that’s not really me. So I dove deeper in the world of mechanical keyboards, found an open source project and made it my very own.
Design
Build on the framework of the Alice to aid my design work.
Arctic White
case
Black Jack
hardware
Carbon Grey
keys
Arashi
Named after the Japanese word for storm because of its distinct heritage and unconventional structure. This ergonomic layout looks the like keys are being blown around by harsh winds. The typing sound resembles raindrops tapping on a roof.
PCB
- Modified Arisu
- VIA compatible
- Based on infamous “Alice” keyboard
- Added arrow keys
- Modified bottom row
- Moved macros
- Removed extra b
- Converted to top mount mini usb
Case
- Stacked 3mm acrylic
- Modified Arisu case
- Stainless standoffs
- Black coated stainless hex screws
- 3mm typing angle
Keys
- NK Creams lubed with 205g0
- GMK screw in stabilizers
- Black on black dye sublimated PBT
- Gold flake and black ink artisan
- White on white 5 pin aviator USB