Virtual Laser Keyboard

[13pi6radiansNoScope]

Hi, I've been doing some research on holographic keyboards
http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/ga ... boards.htm
I understand how it works and how to make one. Thing is I don't know where to buy the items for it. I basically want to experiment with different types of sensor modules to see which one provides better feedback for an electronic keyboard. So I don't need to display the whole keyboard, but maybe a single button or something like that so I can measure the reactiion time between me clicking that button and a computer receiving that command.

Overall I just need help finding the different modules required to build a virtual laser keyboard (projection module, sensor module and illumination module) and the diffractive optical element, red laser diode, CMOS sensor chip and an infrared (IR) laser diode. There's a DIY kit, but it's not being sold any more.

[theborg]

13pi6radiansNoScope,

Thank you for your question, and welcome to the forum. Below is a link to some work done by Cornell University. It includes details of components that you'd be able to search and try to find in your area.

https://courses.cit.cornell.edu/ee476/F ... ap33_vsg3/

One thing to keep in mind. If this is for a science experiment, these type of projects often end up being more engineering projects. I'd check with your teacher that it meets criteria, if this is for class. Also, you can check out the scientific process vs the engineering process described on this Web site.

[13pi6radiansNoScope]

13pi6radiansNoScope,

Thank you for your question, and welcome to the forum. Below is a link to some work done by Cornell University. It includes details of components that you'd be able to search and try to find in your area.

https://courses.cit.cornell.edu/ee476/F ... ap33_vsg3/

One thing to keep in mind. If this is for a science experiment, these type of projects often end up being more engineering projects. I'd check with your teacher that it meets criteria, if this is for class. Also, you can check out the scientific process vs the engineering process described on this Web site.

Thanks a lot. This will definetly help me do some research. I do have one question though, is there an easier way to do the software implementation? It seems like it requires quiet a lot of coding knowledge.

[theborg]

13pi6radiansNoScope,

Whilst I haven't done a lot of research into this area, it looks to me that a custom project like this, even if you find a DIY kit, is going to require some programming to one degree or another. That being said, you will probably be able to find usable code on line for various controllers that can be modified to fit your purpose (such as the code offered on the cornell site I posted earlier). It would help if you know someone with coding experience you can get advice from if that is not a strong skill you have.

[13pi6radiansNoScope]

Thanks, theborg. I just received word from some programmer friends who will help out.
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On the other hand I'm back to doing research on the hardware front of this project. So this is the blueprint of the full set up
https://courses.cit.cornell.edu/ee476/F ... age022.png
and I'm having trouble understanding some things. Do i have the idea right so far?

So you have your designated area for the custom printed keyboad and a laser line pointing in the direction that you're pressing the keyboard. The laser and the camer are connected so as you press a button the camera picks it up and the letter shows up in your program.

Thanks yet again, helpful forum members.