A Smartwatch That Identifies Gestures And Objects

Scientists have developed a technology that enables smart watches to recognize gestures such as taps and flicks as well as identify objects held in the user’s hand, making possible new types of interactions with wearable devices. Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University in the US discovered that a software upgrade that repurposes the smartwatch’s existing accelerometer enables the device to detect and distinguish a variety of taps, flicks and scratches by the hands and fingers. This function makes possible new applications that use common gestures to control the smartwatch and other objects connected through the internet of things. By monitoring vibrations that occur when people hold objects or use tools, the smartwatch would be capable of recognizing objects and activities. It could even be used to help tune a guitar, with the smartwatch displaying the note transmitted. The technology has been developed by PhD students at the Human Computer Interaction Institute (HCII).