USB-powered Posture Reminder keeps slouching in check

Those kind, considerate folks over at Brando are continuing to look out for the chair-sitter's well-being, as the USB Posture Reminder ranks right up there with the USB drink chiller and USB hair trimmer as goods that any desk-strapped individual should keep nearby. This USB-powered device clips onto the top of your monitor's frame, but instead of enabling video chats, it keeps a constant eye on the distance of your forehead in relation to the screen. The VISOMATE uses an ultrasonic sensor to determine whether your eyes are too close (or not close enough) to your screen; if you see a blue light being emitted, you're doing just fine staying in the 35- to 60-centimeter range, but if you manage to slouch too close and break the 35-centimeter barrier, a flashing red light will alert you to your mistake. If blinking lights aren't enough to cause epileptic fits straighten you out, you can even turn a "Chime" function on to reinforce the severity of bad posture, and you can take the first step in correcting your atrocious leaning habit by plopping down $26 and vowing to actually install it when it arrives.

[Via Uber-Review]

[Anthony @ Feb 1st 2007 4:37PM]

Slouching is good for you (studies indicate).

Hasn't Brando heard?

http://blogs.usatoday.com/ondeadline/2006/11/study_moms_wron.html

[Deezee @ Feb 1st 2007 6:52PM]

This thing is technically a good idea but I know I would throw it against a wall within minutes. If I feel like slouching then I'm gonna slouch damn it. I dont need some old school mac mouse looking thing trying to run my life.

[Aroon Saini @ Feb 1st 2007 8:38PM]

yeah i was gonna say that its a proven fact that sitting up straight is extremely bad for your lower back as it puts unnecessary strain on your lower back muscles.

the optimal position for your back is actually 130 degrees (it was either 110, 115, or 130, i dont quite remember) which is basically half way laying down.

[T221 @ Feb 1st 2007 8:40PM]

For IBM T221-DG5 and Viewsonic VP2290b monitors, this device would not work as you have to be close to the screen to read the text.