Thursday, January 31, 2013

Microsoft Research reveals novel gesture control


Hi folks,

Digits, a Microsoft Research developed gesture control, allows the user to control a pc or smartphone with arm- as well as hand-gestures. For instance, it will be possible to make a call while your smartphone is still in your pocket or control a video game with hand motions only. According to David Kim from Microsoft Research, the device will understand what the user wants to do rather than forcing the user to do things in a specific way.

From a technical standpoint, gesture control is not a problem. However, current devices are too big and are not energy efficient enough for usage in mobile devices. These restrictions also apply to the Digits prototype: Velcro holds a device as big as a matchbox to the wrist of the user.

Digits consists of a small black and white camera equipped with an infrared filter as well as a small infrared laser pointed to the fingers. The fingers reflect different amounts of light into the camera. The software calculates the position of the fingers based on 5 points. This method is CPU and energy efficient.

Here you can find the full german article published in Technology Review.

Have fun!   

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