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Muscle Sensors Make for Truly Hands-Free Gaming

by Warren Riddle on October 31, 2009 at 10:30 AM

From humble origins as paddles and single joysticks with one measly fire button, game controllers have dramatically evolved to incorporate track balls, excessive buttons, motion sensors, light guns, and various other crazy features. The next stage in gaming may not require controllers at all, though.

Microsoft, the University of Washington in Seattle, and the University of Toronto have all teamed up to investigate hands-free, muscle-computer interface technology. The technology, using bands of sensors placed along the forearm, allows users to interact with computers and gadgets without having to use actual, physical controllers.

According to the demonstration video, the gesture recognition software "can decode muscle signals from the surface of the skin." Along with gaming, the researchers also demonstrate several common scenarios when the software would come in extremely handy (Ed. Note: Was that a pun?), like opening a car door with both hands occupied, and controlling an MP3 player while jogging.

Future developments seem limitless, including multiple military applications, and the possibility of maybe aiding partial amputees and arthritis sufferers. But, most importantly, the technology could save abused, defenseless, televisions (and pets) from uncoordinated Wii mooks everywhere. Check the video for demonstrations of the awesome technology in action, including an impressive display of air guitar 'Guitar Hero.' [From: Live Science]

Tags: game controllers, GameControllers, gesture recognition, GestureRecognition, hands-free technology, motion sensors, MotionSensors, muscle-computer interface, Muscle-computerInterface, science, top

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