GEORGIA TECH RESEARCHERS AIM TO PUT TONGUES IN CONTROL OF DEVICES
August 25 2008
Atlanta, GA – Researchers at Georgia Tech University have begun developing a new magnetic, tongue based computer control system aimed at aiding the disabled. The system is designed to allow users to transform their tongue and teeth as a virtual keyboard, allowing for hands free manipulation of computer devices.
While the research is being focussed on people who have limited use of their arms, other industries are already starting to see the potential in the technology.
“I see a lot of potential for industry in this technology,” said Steve Hirsch, President of Vivid Entertainment. “While our product is primarily made for couples, we realize that a significant amount of singles also enjoy our product. We feel that this technology could be integrated in a number of ways. Being hands free would only be an advantage for our customers.”
Hirsch also went on to detail the types of things hands free technology could be used for, such as easy rewinding and fast forwarding, and keeping keyboards and remote controls free from sticky residue. “It could be a revolution,” continued Hirsch.
Cell phone companies are also beginning to see the possibilities behind the development.
“We are fans of hands free. This would allow total hands free, no more hitting a button when you get a call,” said a representative for Nokia. “We would of course be interested in seeing how well people are able to speak, I mean we don’t want people accidentally hanging up on people, but I’m sure we could work around that. Anything we can do to allow people to make as little effort as possible we are interested in exploring.”
While the research is still in the very early stages, researchers are optimistic about the possibilities it may provide.
“You could have full control over your environment by just being able to move your tongue," said lead researcher Maysam Ghovanloo. “While it will be aimed at disabled persons, the reality is we have for too long we’ve been forced to use our hands and legs to negotiate our environment. Evolution has taken us this far, but Mother nature has her limits. It’s time for us to take over and revolutionize the way we interact with stuff.”
The new technology is also designed as competition for other similar radical forms of interaction, such as eye movement.
“Eye movement technology is extremely limited,” continued Ghovanloo. “We feel that the tongue is the best avenue to success.”
The group has received $120,000 grant from the National Science Foundation and $150,000 from the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation.
With additional reporting from the Associated Press.
Anna Phillips, Science Correspondent
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