PKT unveiled a keyboard QWERTY equipped keys that change dynamically to adapt to user activity. Picture Key Board (PKB 5000) take advantage of technology Picture Key patented PKT (PKT) to offer an interface that combines the advantages of a touchscreen with the advantages of “haptic” feedback.
Each of the 110 keys keyboard can be planned to view any required image and perform an action predetermined. This allows the keyboard to be customized for specific workflows and reprogrammed as often as needed. Keys can be configured for different languages or linked to specific functions within the PC software applications.
The PKB 5000 uses a single standard computer screen underneath the physical key matrix. Using a special material called Bonded Fiber Optic Image Conduit (BFOIC), the graphic on the screen is transferred to each key and displayed on its cap. The image on each key can be modified by software to meet the user's needs.
Il CEO di PKT Tech, Philip Belcher, said the company's PKT technology is currently deployed around the world in mission-critical film and audio production environments, as well as commercial customer interface applications.
“The PKB 5000 now leverages the benefits of the PKT in the larger business environment,” he said. "Users can expect productivity improvements estimated to be over 20% over using conventional keyboards."
Belcher said the new keyboard is particularly suited for popular commercial / industrial productivity software applications that require multiple key “shortcuts” to enable superior workflow. It is particularly relevant in applications such as contact center, point of sale terminals, graphic editing e process control equipment.
Productivity improvements are expected to be achieved because the Keyboard significantly simplifies repetitive processes by reducing or eliminating the need for keyboard shortcuts and Mouse operations to navigate between multiple windows and icons. It also takes advantage of an application's unique performance characteristics.
“In addition to increasing productivity, the PKB 5000 reduces repetitive strain injuries and operator fatigue by reducing the need for multiple button and mouse clicks,” he said. "This, in turn, should translate into a reduction in time lost due to injuries and staff turnover."
The PKB 5000 keypad can be programmed to follow a particular process with the appropriate images that appear and disappear from the buttons as the workflow progresses. The operator training, therefore, it can be simplified as users no longer have to learn complicated instructions based on key combinations. Also, with only the necessary keys present at any stage of the process, the probability of operator error is significantly reduced.
“We have invested significantly in the development of the QWERTY keyboard prototype to demonstrate how keyframe technology can be exploited in commercial and industrial applications,” said Belcher. “We have seen an approximately 20% improvement in process times for our customers in the broadcast and audio post-production industries. We have also found a significant market advantage for our customers in the gaming machine sectors due to PKT's ability to enable the UI to reflect the flow of their games, attracting players who prefer those machines. Based on process improvement and differentiation in these markets, we firmly believe that applying PKT in commercial and industrial markets will provide similar significant benefits to organizations implementing PKB 5000 keyboards.
PKT Tech is now looking to accelerate the full commercialization of its patented technology. The company is currently in discussions with a number of interested parties.
“A decision has been made whether to proceed with manufacturing and marketing the keyboard or to seek a buyer of the technology who can apply their manufacturing and marketing skills to leverage the technology, and it has been decided that the most effective and timely way to see the technology reach its true global potential is to sell it. In the hands of a major software or hardware vendor who will integrate the technology into their product suites, we believe PKT will revolutionize human interface devices used for critical applications. "
Belcher said the marketing process for PKT will begin immediately. Given the revolutionary nature of the technology, an acquisition should be completed quickly. The purchaser is expected to continue to license the technology to PKT Tech's existing licensees.
The actual validity of such a keyboard is undoubted, the writer has worked on the test and experimentation of syllabic keyboards and alternative forms of input / output devices. The selling price and the reliability of the proposed system will remain to be seen. The premises for a revolutionary device are all there, all that remains is to wait for the realization and large-scale production.
