Topic: Sensors turn skin into gadget control pad

[Simon]

Tapping your forearm or hand with a finger could soon be the way you interact with gadgets.

US researchers have found a way to work out where the tap touches and use that to control phones and music players.  Coupled with a tiny projector the system can use the skin as a surface on which to display menu choices, a number pad or a screen.  Early work suggests the system, called Skinput, can be learned with about 20 minutes of training.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/8587486.stm

[Clive]

I can see that being of great use to invalids or geriatrics who have limited mobility but it's my guess that it will be most popular with kids who really should be far more active and get up to look for their remote! 

[Rik]

I can see it replacing TV remotes as you rarely lose your hand.

[Simon]

Unless you're sitting on it. 

[Rik]

Ah, but you can waggle your fingers to find it.

[Simon]

 

[sam]

Tapping your forearm or hand with a finger could soon be the way you interact with gadgets.

I'm always surprised that devices like a wristwatch haven't been converted into basic mobile phones. Especially with bluetooth headsets to work for the sound.

[Simon]

An idea for Dragon's Den, Sam?  You could make millions! 

[sam]

its all about implementation... and laziness wins.

[Simon]