HP researchers patent foot activated user interface

Nevermind those fancy thought-based biometric systems and brain controlled computers, as a clever group of inventors have patented a foot-activated user interface that can bring mousing abilities to those without hands / arms (or a suitable amount of dexterity). Three blokes working for HP's UK operation have developed a prototype in which humans can use their feet in order to mimic cursor movements more traditionally handled by the keyboard's right-hand man. A magnetic sensor is affixed to one foot, while a transmitter emitting "pulsed magnetic signals" is clipped onto the other, and as the pulsating foot wiggles about, the relative distance and position is calculated and converted into cursor movements on screen. The designers have suggested that "twists" could be understood as "right / left clicks," while "sliding atop the ground" could be translated as "dragging and dropping." Aside from adding newfound utility to disabled individuals who'd like to get their frag on, the team has visions of creating the ultimate multitasker by "keeping the hands free" for handling phone calls and TV dinners while operating a "wearable computer" with their legs. While the folks at HP kick around the idea of releasing this on the market, we'll be sharpening our foot-eye coordination skills in tense anticipation.

[Via New Scientist Tech]

[bc @ Oct 2nd 2006 1:56PM]

Wouldn't it be easier just to use the mouse with your foot?

[Rob @ Oct 2nd 2006 2:13PM]

This sounds like a good idea but moving your feet with any kind of accuracy is tricky and frustrating. I picked up something like this at the thrift store for 3 dollars a couple years ago.

http://www.footmouse.com/

[sean @ Oct 2nd 2006 2:40PM]

I don't get it. These are caleld moles. THey've been around since the 70s. There's a reason why they haven't taken off in popularity.

Originally the concept was to use your feet while both hands were on the keyboard, but people just don't like it.

[Evil Closet Monkey @ Oct 2nd 2006 2:50PM]

BC - No, it likely wouldn't. The difference in dexterity between an arm and a leg create different challanges in creating a usable input device for the leg/foot.

Rob, Sean - Not everyone has full use of their arms. The ability to choose to use a mouse *or* a foot device isn't always there.

[sean @ Oct 2nd 2006 6:03PM]

I realize that not everyone has use of their arms.
However, those people who canot use their arms have better options available than foot control; those who have learned to use their feet with increased dexterity (such as those who can pour milk from a pitcher) are more comfortable using products already designed for hands.

This is simply a solution that's 30 years old and was ineffective then. There are many many more biomed apparatuses available which are easier to use.

.....and don't forget how especially ineffective these devices are when you try to use them while standing up.

[corbanb @ Oct 2nd 2006 3:17PM]

i hope your friends feet don't smell!

[Scott @ Oct 2nd 2006 8:17PM]

Will there be a foot-based keyboard that goes along with this?