How does this work? Pics included.

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The discussion centers on a keyboard projection technology that uses lasers and cameras to simulate a keyboard image. Concerns are raised about its functionality, particularly how it detects key presses when hands block other keys. Users express dissatisfaction with the lack of tactile feedback and the absence of physical key indents, which are crucial for touch typing. The ergonomics of typing on such a device are questioned, as it may require fingers to hover above the projected image, disrupting natural typing habits. Overall, the product is viewed as impractical and potentially frustrating for users.
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How does this work?

http://www.thinkgeek.com/computing/keyboards-mice/8193/"/
 

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Projecting an image of the keyboard? Probably a laser and a diffractive element
Then a camera detecting if anything (ie a finger) is blocking a particular key
 
mgb_phys said:
Projecting an image of the keyboard? Probably a laser and a diffractive element
Then a camera detecting if anything (ie a finger) is blocking a particular key

Not so simple though, because when you press a key on the top of the keyboard, your hand blocks a major section of all the keys below. So it has to distinguish which key is actually being pressed.

From a consumer standpoint, a very stupid product because now I no longer have a tactile feel of a key being pressed, nor do I have the indents as a reference (on the F and J keys) for my fingers so I can type without looking. Nor do I want yet another device with more cables and a power outlet.
 
Cyrus said:
Not so simple though, because when you press a key on the top of the keyboard, your hand blocks a major section of all the keys below. So it has to distinguish which key is actually being pressed.

From a consumer standpoint, a very stupid product because now I no longer have a tactile feel of a key being pressed, nor do I have the indents as a reference (on the F and J keys) for my fingers so I can type without looking. Nor do I want yet another device with more cables and a power outlet.

I agree -- probably terrible typing ergonomics. You probably have to keep your fingertips at least some distance above the table image, so that the tap is more evident to the reader. When I'm blazing at typing, my fingertips are generally off the keyboard, but as I slow down to think, my fingertips naturally come to rest, and as Cyrus says, re-confirm the home row position. Yuck.
 
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