Kickstarter | Gen2 Touchscreen Mapcase
Hey guys!
I wanted to let you guys know about a Kickstarter Project that I partnered with, providing a starter pack of maps and tokens for people who supported this awesome touchscreen Mapcase by Blackbear Workshops.
I know many of us were forced to VTT during COVID, but longed to return to our tabletop sessions. After experiencing the benefit that VTT's could provide, solutions like this help to provide the best of both worlds. If you enjoy well-designed systems and high-end tools that support your hobby, check these guys out!
You can read about the Kickstarter here, but I've included some construction details below:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/blackbearworkshops/gen2-touchscreen-mapcase
High-End Smart Design
Point by point, allow me to break down the feature of the Gen2 Touchscreen MapCase, which come together to create a high-end, well-thought-out and optimised design
Breathable MapCase
Chimney effect allowing heat to escape vertically via ventilation slots cut into 85% of the inside perimeter. These vents allow heat to escape upwards.
Mechanical ventilation that pressurises the interior of the MapCase with fresh air and up to 700 cm² opening beneath the map case to optimise screen cooling. Combined to the ventilation slots, the risk associate to the Heatbox issue is eradicated!
Conductive Hero Base
The simplicity of the Hero base’s design is matched only by its reliability and minimalist aesthetic. Consisting of a solid copper disc, the base contains no mechanical components that might wear out over time. The only additions are a piece of conductive felt and an insulating felt.
The electromagnetic detection area of the copper token has been reduced from 26 mm in diameter of the Hero base to 8 mm in diameter, thereby improving the accuracy of the base.
100% compatible with or without the miniature base
The best screen protector available
🪞 - Anti-glare Surface 🔨 - Tempered glass
- Anti-fingerprint
🛡️ - Scratch-resistant
🧊 - A thermally conductive material that promotes heat dissipation
A design focused on ergonomics
The handles, which are recessed into the frame, maintain a minimalist aesthetic whilst allowing for easy handling without the need for handles that protrude from the frame. This design choice saves valuable space on the table.
The LCD screen is positioned 6mm below the glass surface, resulting in a parallax effect. However, that parralax effect is mitigate by the use of digital tokens where the digital maps are displayed. Even with a great view angle, you clearly see where your character is by confirming the presence of the digital token with the grid.
The Gen2 touchscreen MapCase is very slim for its class. At 6.35 cm high, it strikes an excellent balance between airflow beneath the screen and a viewing angle that isn’t too narrow for gamers who prefer to remain seated.
Built to Last
The mitre joints are reinforced with wenge, which provides a striking contrast and enhances the strength of the corners. The contact surface for the wood glue is quadrupled by adding a side joint that bonds the long sides of the fibres, creating a highly durable bounds.
The rear panel holds the screen securely in place at the centre of the MapCase cavity thanks to the screw-fixing system, which is designed to be compatible with the VESA mounting system. The screen cannot be moved inside the MapCase.
A 4 mm gap surrounds the screen to prevent it from coming into direct contact with the MapCase frame. This stops any energy generated by an impact from being transmitted to the screen, much like the moat surrounding a castle
The Screen is locked to the rear pannel. The rear pannel is locked to the wooden enclosure. The construction is sturdy, robust and designed to act as a shell.
A wooden protective cover is designed to protect the screen from any potential damage during transport or storage. It provides additional protection for your investment. The cover is securely held in place by four brass latches.
If you are interested in this type of tool for your tabletop games, definitely check them out!
Best,
Jeff @ Morvold