Space Theme Keyboard – Final Report Part 1

Project Overview

For my final project, I chose to design and customize a mechanical keyboard inspired by the theme of space exploration, taking significant influence from the vibrant and colorful aesthetics of the game No Man’s Sky. My goal was to create a keyboard that functions as an effective gaming tool while also serving as a striking visual centerpiece. This design blends futuristic elements with DIY craftsmanship. I envisioned this keyboard as more than just a functional object; it is a personal expression of creativity that combines my love for gaming, technology, and aesthetic design into a cohesive and immersive artifact.

Inspiration and Adaptation

The primary inspiration for this project came from the visually stunning world of No Man’s Sky, a game known for its vibrant color palettes, futuristic environments, and a sense of limitless exploration. I was particularly drawn to the combination of purples, pinks, and deep-space blues, which evoke feelings of wonder and adventure. I incorporated these visual elements into the design of the keyboard using the hydro dipping technique, aiming to replicate the organic, swirling patterns found in cosmic imagery. Additionally, I took inspiration from modern gaming setups that emphasize RGB lighting and minimalist, high-performance hardware. Throughout the project, I adapted traditional hydro dipping methods to suit smaller, more detailed components like keycaps, ensuring the final product retained both its aesthetic appeal and everyday functionality.

Image 1: No Man’s Sky (The Game)

Artistic Vision and Aesthetic

The artistic vision behind this project was to create a keyboard that feels like a natural extension of a space explorer’s toolkit—something that captures the vastness, color, and mystery of the universe. I aimed for the keyboard to evoke a sense of wonder and immersion, utilizing hydro dipping to create flowing, nebula-like patterns on the keycaps. The choice of a purple and pink color scheme was intentional, as it reflects the ethereal beauty of deep space, reminiscent of imagery found in science fiction and games like No Man’s Sky. The RGB backlighting adds another dimension, providing a dynamic, constantly shifting glow that mimics the vibrant energy of a distant galaxy. The final aesthetic is a fusion of futuristic design and handcrafted individuality, resulting in a piece that feels both otherworldly and deeply personal.

Specification of the Keyboard

• Model: Redragon K617 Rapid Trigger 60% Mechanical Keyboard

• Layout: 60% (Compact, 61 keys)

• Connectivity: Wired USB connection

• Switch Type: Hot-swappable Red Mechanical Switches

• Backlighting: Full RGB customizable lighting

• Dynamic Feature: Hot-swappable switches for easy replacement/customization

• Build: Ultra-portable, lightweight design

• Stabilizers: Pre-lubed stabilizers for smoother keypress

• Stand: No-slip adjustable keyboard stand

• Keycap Material: ABS plastic (custom hydro-dipped finish applied)

• Special Features:

  • Minimalist design ideal for gaming setups

  • Durable, reliable performance

  • RGB modes customizable without software or with Redragon software

• Color Theme: Space exploration-themed purple and pink hydro-dipped keycaps

Image 2: Redragon K617 Rapid Trigger Gaming Keyboard

Design Process

Conceptualization

• Defined the vision for a space-themed, DIY mechanical keyboard inspired by the game “No Man’s Sky”.
•  Chose a purple and pink aesthetic to reflect cosmic imagery.

Material Selection

• Selected the Redragon FIZZ K617 60% mechanical keyboard for its portability, RGB lighting, and hot-swappable features.
• Gathered hydro dipping supplies, including hydrographic film, activator spray, and a large dipping container.

Preparation

• Cleaned and sanded the ABS keycaps to improve paint adhesion.
• Set up the dipping area with safety equipment and necessary tools.

Trial Dipping

• Conducted initial test dips on spare keycaps to perfect the technique.
• Adjusted the dipping speed and activator application based on the trial results.

Hydro Dipping Process

• Filled the tank with water and placed the hydrographic film on the surface.
• Sprayed activator to dissolve the film and prepare it for transfer. – Dipped the keycaps slowly to achieve smooth, cosmic patterns.

Post-Dip Treatment

• Rinsed and dried the dipped keycaps thoroughly.
• Planned to apply a clear coat for durability; this was delayed due to package issues.

Assembly

• Reassembled the customized keycaps onto the keyboard.
• Performed functional checks to ensure all keys operated properly.

Final Touches

• Conducted aesthetic refinements and cleaned the keyboard.
• Set up RGB lighting modes to complement the space-themed color scheme.

Embodiment of Aesthetic

The final keyboard effectively captures the intended aesthetic of space exploration through its bold use of color, dynamic lighting, and organic design patterns. The swirling purple and pink hydro-dipped keycaps evoke images of distant galaxies, nebulae, and cosmic phenomena, closely aligning with the visual inspirations from No Man’s Sky. The RGB backlighting enhances this effect, creating a constantly shifting and vibrant atmosphere that mirrors the experience of traveling through a colorful, living universe. The compact 60% layout and minimalistic design further emphasize a futuristic, high-tech look, while the handcrafted finish adds a layer of individuality and artistic expression. Overall, the project transforms a functional gaming keyboard into a personal artifact that captures both the beauty and mystery of space.

Next Steps

Part 2 of this report will describe the detailed fabrication process of the keyboard, including step-by-step coverage of the hydro dipping technique, the reassembly of the keyboard, and any final adjustments made leading up to the AesDes Expo. I will also document any improvements or refinements based on testing and feedback. In addition, I plan to include more high-quality photos showcasing the final aesthetic, as well as a short video demonstration to highlight the dynamic RGB lighting and the overall visual impact of the completed keyboard.

References: –

[1] Featured Image is Mine

[2] No Man’s Sky Wallpaper

[3] Redragon Keyboards