Virtual Keyboard Is Just Another Example of Today's Computer
Virtual Keyboard Is Just Another Example of Today's Computer
INTRODUCTION
QWERTY KEYBOARDS
The key matrix is the grid of circuits underneath the keys. In all
keyboards except for capacitive ones, each circuit is broken at the point
below a specific key. Pressing the key, bridges the gap in the circuit,
allowing a tiny amount of current to flow through. The processor
monitors the key matrix for signs of continuity at any point on the grid.
When it finds a circuit that is closed, it compares the location of that
circuit on the key matrix to the character map in its ROM. The
character map is basically a comparison chart for the processor that tells
it what the key at x,y coordinates in the key matrix represents. If more
Dept. of CSE -2- MESCE Kuttippuram
Seminar Report ’03 Virtual Keyboard
than one key is pressed at the same time, the processor checks to see if
that combination of keys has a designation in the character map. For
example, pressing the ‘a’ key by itself would result in a small letter "a"
being sent to the computer. If you press and hold down the Shift key
while pressing the ‘a’ key, the processor compares that combination
with the character map and produces a capital letter "A."
TYPES OF KEYBOARDS
The typing keys are the section of the keyboard that contains
the letter keys, generally laid out in the same style that was common for
typewriters. The numeric keypad is a part of the natural evolution
mentioned previously. Since a large part of the data was numbers, a set
of 17 keys was added to the keyboard. These keys are laid out in the
same configuration used by most adding machines and calculators, to
Dept. of CSE -5- MESCE Kuttippuram
Seminar Report ’03 Virtual Keyboard
facilitate the transition to computer for clerks accustomed to these other
machines. In 1986, IBM extended the basic keyboard with the addition
of function and control keys. The function keys, arranged in a line
across the top of the keyboard, could be assigned specific commands by
the current application or the operating system. Control keys provided
cursor and screen control. Four keys arranged in an inverted T formation
between the typing keys and numeric keypad allows the user to move
the cursor on the display in small increments.
Keyboard Technologies
Alternatives
When a standard keyboard does not meet the needs of the user,
several alternatives can be found. Keyboards come in a variety of sizes
with different layouts. The four alternatives described below are
considered "plug and play" keyboards, as they require no special
interface. Just plug them into the existing keyboard port and use them.
Ergonomic Keyboards:
Enlarged Keyboards:
Portable Keyboards :
VIRTUAL DEVICES
Both the "pure" and "hybrid" classes of device have been used
and have strengths and weaknesses. Since laser projection is far less
advanced than conventional data projection, the hybrid solution
sometimes has advantages on the display side. However, 2D and 3D
scanning using lasers is far more developed than 2D and 3D vision using
video based vision techniques. This is partially due to the degree to
which the laser technology can extract 3D information. Going forward,
one can expect laser projection technology to advance extremely
quickly, especially in its ability to deliver extremely small, low power,
bright, relatively high resolution projection capability. This will likely
have a strong impact on how we interact with small portable devices,
such as PDAs, mobile phones and even wristwatches. Not only does
this technology provide a means to couple large (virtual) I/O transducers
with small devices, it provides the potential for sharing and interacting
with others, despite using devices as small as a wrist watch.
VIRTUAL TYPING
Developer vkb
Its full-size keyboard also can be projected onto any surface and
uses laser technology to translate finger movements into letters.
Working with Siemens Procurement Logistics Services Rechargeable
batteries similar to those in cell phones power the compact unit .The
keyboard is full size and the letters are in a standard format. As a Class 1
laser, the output power is below the level at which eye injury can occur.
Canesta
Kitty
InFocus
CONCLUSION
REFERENCES
1. http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh
2. www.canesta.com
3. www.procams.org
4. www.billbuxton.com/3state.html
5. www.smarttech.com
6. www.3m.com/us/office/meeting/product_catalog/wd.jhtml
7. IEEE International Workshop on Projector-Camera Systems
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Thasleena V
CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION
2. QWERTY KEYBOARDS
Inside the keyboard
Types of keyboards
Difficulties and alternatives
3. VIRTUAL DEVICES
4. VIRTUAL TYPING
5. TYPES OF VIRTUAL KEYBOARDS
6. CONCLUSION