Microsoft Natal’s camera based motion control system hasn’t even arrived yet but that hasn’t stopped Microsoft Research from trying to patent the next step. It’s revealed a system that use muscle sensors to control games and handheld devices.
The Microsoft Research invention uses EMG sensors in an arm band to detect finger gestures based on the muscle movement they pick up. It means there’s no need for a camera or a peripheral (remember the Power Glove?).
Microsoft is developing a wireless EMG sensor module that can be placed all over your body to allow for other gestures and movements to be detected.
In the video above, Microsoft Research shows someone playing Guitar Hero without a controller. It’s a clever application but perhaps a little less fun than actually using a guitar controller.
Microsoft also suggests that the wireless EMG sensors will allow you to control portable devices like music players with gestures. That would allow you to do things like change tracks while running without needing to touch it. Hopefully you wouldn’t look as moronic as the jogger in the video though.
Microsoft Research is only just submitting a patent application so it could be a while before muscle sensors come to your Xbox 360 or let you control your MP3 player remotely. But given the speed of developments in this area, we could see practical applications within the next two years.
Due TBA | £TBA | Microsoft Research (via Engadget)
