HMI (human machine interface) is the space where humans and
machines connect and it’s getting a whole
lot more sophisticated. The HMI can be as simple as a keyboard or mouse, or as
complicated as a biometric devise that unlocks certain controls. But now technological
breakthroughs in science are making ground breaking advances on new user
interface systems that include gesture based hmi. This type of advanced hmi
enables movement from the users hand to interacts with the computer in much the
same way as a keyboard or mouse. This opens up another leap in technological
advancement that puts us ever closer to the intersection of man and machine.
Gesture based HMI enables the user to interact more
naturally with the computer creating a tighter integration between man and
machine. Imagine waving your hand at the computer to signal it to turn on, or
pointing your finger toward a numerical key pad to enter a password. You don’t
actually have to imagine this technology anymore. Not only is gesture based hmi
real, it’s available and it’s relatively inexpensive.
Texas A&M researcher and scientist Dugan Um, has
released several different gesture based hmi models that range from a couple
hundred dollars to $400. These HMI devises are basically very sophisticated
cameras that take 3D pictures of the users actions (such as hand movement),
interpret the movement, and send the information to the computer. This results
in a true gesture based hmi system where the user is literally controlling the
computer with movement.
These Human Machine Interface models all come with software and are ready to go
for home based computers. Of course they will appeal to technology enthusiasts,
but the practical applications are boundless. Industrial equipment can be
operated with more safety and precision, gaming can be taking to a more
realistic level, computers can be accessible to people with certain disabilities.
The possibilities are endless. These gesture based recognition hmi systems make
it possible to point a finger at a computer screen and have the curser move wherever
the finer is pointing. This will eventually make the mouse redundant.
One can imagine the uses of HMI extending to sign language
recognition, assistive robotics, totally immersive gaming technology, remote
controls that can’t be lost. Regardless of the uses for gesture based HMI, the
technology is here and it’s going to stay.
Previous attempts at gesture based hmi devises typically
came with some aspect that made them impractical, such as wired gloves or other
attachments that had to be worn. Others
lacked proper distance control. The new advanced hmi systems from Dinast are
based on a 3D visualization system using smart cameras that actually recognizes
human hand gestures for both home and industrial applications. There is a video
demonstration of the hmi in action here.
HMI promises to change the entire technology industry and
make it easier and more interesting to use computers, play games, and work. To
find out more about gesture based HMI, please visit www.dinast.com, where you will find a variety
of information and affordable HMI devises.
