Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Hands-on with wireless, ultrasonic stylus and touchless gestures at MWC (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/01/hands-on-with-wireless-ultrasonic-stylus-and-touchless-gestures/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/01/hands-on-with-wireless-ultrasonic-stylus-and-touchless-gestures/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/01/hands-on-with-wireless-ultrasonic-stylus-and-touchless-gestures/#comments Hands-on with wireless, ultrasonic stylus and touchless gesture applications at MWCThis isn't the first time you've heard of EPOS or XTR, but it's been quite some time since we've checked in with either of the outfits. So, imagine our surprise as we stumbled on new developments from each company as we perused the Texas Instruments booth at MWC. In the case of EPOS, we're shown a stylus that, in addition to offering traditional physical touch input, also allows users to interact with a device via ultrasound. The system is built upon TI's OMAP4 platform and requires that four microphones be placed at the corners of the screen. In this demonstration, we're shown how users can manipulate objects on a 3D plane via the Z-axis by pulling the pen away from the display. Next, we're shown a new application for the touchless gesturing system that XTR first debuted back in 2010. In this scenario, it's demonstrated how tablet owners could use the front-facing camera (at merely QVGA resolution) to flip through pages of a cookbook without worry of getting ingredients on the device. The concept software was developed by a French outfit known as Stonetrip, and also allows users to zoom and pan through the pages. You'll find demonstrations of each technology in a video after the break.

Continue reading Hands-on with wireless, ultrasonic stylus and touchless gestures at MWC (video)

Hands-on with wireless, ultrasonic stylus and touchless gestures at MWC (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Mar 2012 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eposextreme realityExtremeRealitygesturegesture-basedgestureshands-onmwcmwc 2012Mwc2012omap 4Omap4stonetripstylustexas instrumentsTexasInstrumentsTItouchlessultrasonicultrasonic penUltrasonicPenultrasoundvideoxtrThu, 01 Mar 2012 08:28:00 EST<![CDATA[MobiUS smartphone ultrasound hits the market two years too late for relevancy]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/13/mobius-smartphone-ultrasound-hits-the-market-two-years-too-late/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/13/mobius-smartphone-ultrasound-hits-the-market-two-years-too-late/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/13/mobius-smartphone-ultrasound-hits-the-market-two-years-too-late/#comments Mobisante MobiUS smartphone ultrasound Mobisante's MobiUS smartphone ultrasound system scored FDA approval back in February, a big step towards getting the product out the door. Now the brainchild of former Microsoft bigwig Dr. Sailesh Chutani is finally available to order, the only problem is that it's based around two-year-old tech. At the heart of the MobiUS system is a Toshiba TG01 (it of Windows Mobile 6.5 stock) a now hopelessly outdated handset. Still, the probe and phone together cost $7,495, just a tiny fraction of what traditional ultrasound systems cost. We're sure there are small clinics, especially in poor and remote parts of the world, that are already eyeing Dr. Chutani's solution and, if his company scores enough orders, he hopes to cut the price in half. Maybe they can put some of that money towards developing a system that works with smartphone platforms people actually use -- like Android and iOS. Check out the demo video after the break.

Continue reading MobiUS smartphone ultrasound hits the market two years too late for relevancy

MobiUS smartphone ultrasound hits the market two years too late for relevancy originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 09:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>medicalmedicinemobisantemobisante mobiusmobisante mobius smartphone ultrasoundMobisanteMobiusMobisanteMobiusSmartphoneUltrasoundMobiUSmobius smartphone ultrasoundMobiusSmartphoneUltrasoundSailesh ChutaniSaileshChutanismartphone ultrasoundSmartphoneUltrasoundTG01toshibatoshiba tg01ToshibaTg01ultrasoundultrasound stethoscopeUltrasoundStethoscopewindows mobilewindows mobile 6.5WindowsMobileWindowsMobile6.5Thu, 13 Oct 2011 09:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Zoosh does mobile payments using ultrasound, no NFC chip required]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/20/zoosh-does-mobile-payments-using-ultrasound-no-nfc-chip-require/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/20/zoosh-does-mobile-payments-using-ultrasound-no-nfc-chip-require/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/20/zoosh-does-mobile-payments-using-ultrasound-no-nfc-chip-require/#comments Zoosh. That may or may not be what an ultrasonic payment sounds like to a dolphin, but it is definitely the name of a new mobile wallet technology developed by Silicon Valley start-up, Naratte. While Google and other major players have focused on traditional radio-based NFC, Naratte has been quietly testing its ultrasound system instead, motivated by the fact that it can work on ordinary handsets without the need for specialized NFC circuitry. Two phones can "zoosh" each other using nothing but their built-in microphones and speakers, so long as they're both running the necessary app. Moreover, Naratte claims that cash tills can be upgraded to hear the sweet jangle of ultrasonic cash for just $30 -- around a third of the cost of installing radio-based NFC hardware. So who knows? The last time you came this close to ultrasound was probably just before you were born, but one day you might find yourself using it to buy diapers. Scary.

Zoosh does mobile payments using ultrasound, no NFC chip required originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Jun 2011 16:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cashmobile paymentmobile paymentsmobile walletMobilePaymentMobilePaymentsMobileWalletmoneynaratteNFCpaymentpayment systemPaymentSystempoint-of-saleRFIDsaletransactionultrasonicultrasoundzooshMon, 20 Jun 2011 16:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Startup's headset will bathe your brain in ultrasound, might help fight cancer, too]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/24/startups-headset-will-bathe-your-brain-in-ultrasound-might-hel/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/24/startups-headset-will-bathe-your-brain-in-ultrasound-might-hel/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/24/startups-headset-will-bathe-your-brain-in-ultrasound-might-hel/#commentsThe scientific community has spent a decade exploring ultrasound as a means of breaking through the blood-brain barrier -- a layer of tightly-packed cells that surround the brain's blood vessels, making it difficult for doctors to deliver chemotherapy and other treatments to cancer patients. Thus far, though, most ultrasound-based techniques have relied upon complex and often costly equipment, including MRI machines and infusion pumps. But researchers at a startup called Perfusion Technology think they may have come up with a less invasive, more cost-effective alternative -- a new headset designed to deliver low-intensity ultrasound therapy to the entire brain over the course of extended treatment periods. This approach differs markedly from most other methods, which typically target smaller areas of the brain with high-intensity ultrasound doses. As with most other potential breakthroughs, however, Perfusion's technique still needs to undergo some major testing. The company has already conducted several tests on animals, but the last time a similar method was tried on humans, many subjects ended up suffering from excessive bleeding. And that doesn't sound good at all.

Startup's headset will bathe your brain in ultrasound, might help fight cancer, too originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 24 Apr 2011 15:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bloodbrainbrain tumorBrainTumorcancerchemotherapydoctorsheadsethealthhospitalinfusion pumpInfusionPumpmedicalmedicinemrineurologyperfusionperfusion technologyPerfusionTechnologystartuptestingtreatmenttumorultrasoundSun, 24 Apr 2011 15:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Mobisante's MobiUS smartphone ultrasound system secures FDA clearance, now needs to graduate from WinMo]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/06/mobisantes-mobius-smartphone-ultrasound-system-secures-fda-clea/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/06/mobisantes-mobius-smartphone-ultrasound-system-secures-fda-clea/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/06/mobisantes-mobius-smartphone-ultrasound-system-secures-fda-clea/#commentsThe concept of a smartphone-based ultrasound imaging system is far from new, but Dr. Sailesh Chutani -- Mobisante's CEO and a former bigwig at Microsoft -- is bound and determined to take things beyond the drawing board. The aforesaid company has just landed what may in fact be the most important part of the production puzzle: 510(k) clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration. That's a major seal of approval, and pretty much allows the company to move forward with plans to get ultrasound technology into remote villages and rural hospitals where it's simply not feasible to purchase a $20,000+ system. Of course, there's still many years of work between now and then; the existing build only works on Toshiba's WinMo-based TG01 smartphone, and current estimates still put a $7,000 to $8,000 price tag on the whole MobiUS package. If it can reach critical mass, it's hoping to halve that asking price, and if things keep progressing, this may very well be the company that makes an ultrasound stethoscope a reality. Here's hoping this is just the firm's first celebration of many to come.

Mobisante's MobiUS smartphone ultrasound system secures FDA clearance, now needs to graduate from WinMo originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 06 Feb 2011 23:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FDAmedicalmedicinemobisanteMobiUSSailesh ChutaniSaileshChutaniseattleTG01ultrasoundultrasound stethoscopeUltrasoundStethoscopeSun, 06 Feb 2011 23:29:00 EST<![CDATA[DARPA seeks out remote controls for soldiers' minds]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/14/darpa-seeks-out-remote-controls-for-soldiers-minds/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/14/darpa-seeks-out-remote-controls-for-soldiers-minds/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/14/darpa-seeks-out-remote-controls-for-soldiers-minds/#comments
 DARPA is always on the lookout for the newest, zaniest gadgets but this time, we think it's gone too far. According to the Department of Defense's recent blog post, the military is interested in developing remote control techniques using ultrasound... for soldiers. Arizona State University neuroscientist William Tyler has been working on the project for several years, and now, DARPA is getting involved as well. Tyler and his team have developed a transcranial pulsed ultrasound capable of stimulating brain circuits from outside of the brain, and it can target deeper parts of the brain than past devices. The prototypes are small enough to be placed inside of a helmet, and the plan is to improve its spatial resolution with DARPA's new infusion of funding. We know they're probably looking to do cool stuff like make soldiers think they're nice and cool when they're actually frying in the sun, but we can't help but get the creeps from this one.

DARPA seeks out remote controls for soldiers' minds originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Sep 2010 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darpahelmetmind controlMindControlthoughtthoughtsultrasoundwarwar gadgetWarGadgetTue, 14 Sep 2010 19:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Toshiba's Viamo is the tablet your doctor has been dreaming of]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/05/toshibas-viamo-is-the-tablet-your-doctor-has-been-dreaming-of/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/05/toshibas-viamo-is-the-tablet-your-doctor-has-been-dreaming-of/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/05/toshibas-viamo-is-the-tablet-your-doctor-has-been-dreaming-of/#commentsTosiba's Viamo is the tablet your doctor has been dreaming of Convertible tablets are a dime a dozen in the laptop space, but very, very few of them can save your life. Toshiba's Viamo is the one that could -- when used by someone who knows how to control it, that is. It's a portable ultrasound device that has some tactile knobs and buttons for the old-school practitioners, but can be entirely controlled by that touchscreen, which folds flat. Sure, it isn't as portable as other ultrasound machines we've seen before, but it certainly looks quite a bit more advanced, and this one mounts on a pole for easy wheeling around your busy ER -- important when helicopters crash into your roof, ambulances explode out front, and two doctors madly in love need to make a little room. Viamo is newly approved by the FDA and so is now available in the US at a cost that we wouldn't hazard to guess at.

Toshiba's Viamo is the tablet your doctor has been dreaming of originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 05 Feb 2010 08:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>medicalmedical equipmentMedicalEquipmentportable ultrasoundPortableUltrasoundtoshibatoshiba viamoToshibaViamotouchscreenultrasoundviamoFri, 05 Feb 2010 08:23:00 EST<![CDATA[GE VScan portable ultrasound earns the Leonard McCoy seal of approval]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/22/ge-vscan-portable-ultrasound-earns-the-leonard-mccoy-seal-of-app/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/22/ge-vscan-portable-ultrasound-earns-the-leonard-mccoy-seal-of-app/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/22/ge-vscan-portable-ultrasound-earns-the-leonard-mccoy-seal-of-app/#comments Well, would you look at this little beaut from from the Web 2.0 summit. General Electric CEO Jeff Immelt swung by the event last night pocketing the not-quite-flip phone tricorder Vscan, which all kidding aside is one of the smallest functional ultrasound machines we've seen. The goal is for doctors to have better access to specialist tools, reducing the number of referrals and improving diagnoses, etc. -- and we're sure selling an absolute ton of these is probably on the to-do list as well. See a glimpse of it in action after the break.

[Via Pocket-Lint]

Continue reading GE VScan portable ultrasound earns the Leonard McCoy seal of approval

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GE VScan portable ultrasound earns the Leonard McCoy seal of approval originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 02:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gegeneral electrictricorderultra soundUltraSoundv scanVScanThu, 22 Oct 2009 02:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Elliptic Labs returns with more red hot touchless UI action]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/08/elliptic-labs-returns-with-more-red-hot-touchless-ui-action/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/08/elliptic-labs-returns-with-more-red-hot-touchless-ui-action/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/08/elliptic-labs-returns-with-more-red-hot-touchless-ui-action/#comments
Elliptic Labs is back on the scene with another demo of its touchless UI. This time 'round the company's teamed up with Opera and presents us with a much more polished affair, not to mention a couple technical details. According to CEO Stian Aldrin, the device is based on ultrasound, tracks the hand itself (no reflector or sensor necessary), has a range of one foot, and has been designed to be either embedded in any electronic device (including a cellphone) or to connect to devices via USB. The company's current demo shows the technology being used to flip through photos in an Opera widget. Sure, a couple simple one-gesture commands isn't exactly "pulling all the stops," as far as a proof-of-concept goes, but we're looking forward to seeing what this company comes up with in the future. Peep for yourself after the break.



Continue reading Elliptic Labs returns with more red hot touchless UI action

Elliptic Labs returns with more red hot touchless UI action originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 13:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3delliptic labsEllipticLabsinterfaceStian AldrinStianAldrintouchlesstouchless interfacetouchless uiTouchlessInterfaceTouchlessUiultrasoundvideoTue, 08 Sep 2009 13:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Acoustic superlens could mask ships from sonar... in theory, anyway]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/31/acoustic-superlens-could-mask-ships-from-sonar-in-theory-any/http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/31/acoustic-superlens-could-mask-ships-from-sonar-in-theory-any/http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/31/acoustic-superlens-could-mask-ships-from-sonar-in-theory-any/#commentsMan, the mad scientists are really on a roll of late. First we hear that Li-ion cells are set to magically double in capacity, and now we're learning that a new form of invisibility cloak is totally gearing up for its Target debut. As the seemingly endless quest to bend light in such a way as to create a sheath of invisibility continues, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign's Nicholas Fang has reportedly developed a metamaterial that acts as a type of acoustic superlens. In theory, at least, this approach would rely on phreaking with sound rather than light in order to intensely focus ultrasound waves; by doing so, one could hypothetically "hide ships from sonar." To be fair, this all sounds entirely more believable than hiding massive vessels from human sight, but we're still not taking our skeptic hat off until we see (er, don't see?) a little proof.

[Via Slashdot]

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Acoustic superlens could mask ships from sonar... in theory, anyway originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 31 May 2009 21:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Acoustic SuperlensAcousticSuperlensboatclinical imagingClinicalImagingimaginginvisibilityinvisibility cloakInvisibilityCloakinvisiblelensoptical superlensOpticalSuperlensphysicsresearchscienceshipsonarsubsubmarineSuperlensultrasoundultrasound lensUltrasoundLensuniversitySun, 31 May 2009 21:32:00 EST<![CDATA[USB ultrasound device coming to a Windows Mobile phone near you?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/21/usb-ultrasound-device-coming-to-a-windows-mobile-phone-near-you/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/21/usb-ultrasound-device-coming-to-a-windows-mobile-phone-near-you/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/21/usb-ultrasound-device-coming-to-a-windows-mobile-phone-near-you/#comments
Two computer science professors at Washington University have produced a USB ultrasound probe which is compatible with Windows Mobile smartphones. The project, funded by Microsoft, has developed and optimized probe that uses less power, and is enhanced for data transfer rates on cellphones. The devices could be especially useful in on-the-go situations -- for ambulances, emergencies, and for use by traveling medical staff. The makers also foresee that the device could positively effect medical practice in the developing world, where equipment and doctors can be scarce, and a small, but cellphone access is ever increasingly prevalent. We don't know when these might be commercially available, but they are hoping to sell them for around $500 -- significantly cheaper than many portable ultrasounds, which can cost almost $30,000.

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USB ultrasound device coming to a Windows Mobile phone near you? originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 18:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesDavid ZarDavidZardigital imagingDigitalImagingdoctorsimagingmedicalmedical instrumentsMedicalInstrumentsmobilesmartphoneultrasoundWashington UniversityWashingtonUniversityWilliam D. RichardWilliamD.Richardwindows mobileWindowsMobileTue, 21 Apr 2009 18:43:00 EST<![CDATA[USB ultrasound device coming to a Windows Mobile phone near you?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/21/usb-ultrasound-device-coming-to-a-windows-mobile-phone-near-you/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/21/usb-ultrasound-device-coming-to-a-windows-mobile-phone-near-you/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/21/usb-ultrasound-device-coming-to-a-windows-mobile-phone-near-you/#comments
Two computer science professors at Washington University in St. Louis have produced a USB ultrasound probe which is compatible with Windows Mobile smartphones. The project, funded by Microsoft, has developed and optimized probe that uses less power, and is enhanced for data transfer rates on cellphones. The devices could be especially useful in on-the-go situations -- for ambulances, emergencies, and for use by traveling medical staff. The makers also foresee that the device could positively effect medical practice in the developing world, where equipment and doctors can be scarce, and a small, but cellphone access is ever increasingly prevalent. We don't know when these might be commercially available, but they are hoping to sell them for around $500 -- significantly cheaper than many portable ultrasounds, which can cost almost $30,000.

Update: Check out another image after the break.

[Via Physorg]

Continue reading USB ultrasound device coming to a Windows Mobile phone near you?

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USB ultrasound device coming to a Windows Mobile phone near you? originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 18:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>David ZarDavidZardigital imagingDigitalImagingdoctorsimagingmedicalmedical instrumentsMedicalInstrumentssmartphoneultrasoundWashington UniversityWashingtonUniversityWilliam D. RichardWilliamD.Richardwindows mobileWindowsMobileTue, 21 Apr 2009 18:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Robot doctors join the fight against breast cancer]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/11/robot-doctors-join-the-fight-against-breast-cancer/http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/11/robot-doctors-join-the-fight-against-breast-cancer/http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/11/robot-doctors-join-the-fight-against-breast-cancer/#comments
From Da Vinci robosurgeons to helpful nursebots , robots are becoming commonplace in hospitals the world over -- and now researchers at Duke University have developed a rudimentary tabletop robot that uses 3D ultrasound technology to detect a 'lesion' in a simulated sponge breast, pinpoint its exact location, and perform a biopsy. All the calculations are performed by the device itself, using what has been described as "a basic artificial intelligence program." The next step in the research will be an upgrade that will that the robotic arm from three-axis to six-axis capability, and a change from the old sponge-based simulated breast to one made from turkey breasts, which approximates the density of human breast tissue. According to Stephen Smith, director of the Duke University Ultrasound Transducer Group, if things stay on track, robots will be performing routine breast exams and biopsies in five to ten years. Video after the break.

[Via PhysOrg]

Continue reading Robot doctors join the fight against breast cancer

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Robot doctors join the fight against breast cancer originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Feb 2009 13:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d ultrasound3dUltrasoundbiopsybreast cancer preventionbreast cancer researchBreastCancerPreventionBreastCancerResearchcancer preventioncancer researchCancerPreventionCancerResearchdukeduke universityDukeUniversityresearchrobot doctorRobotDoctorstephen smithStephenSmithultrasoundWed, 11 Feb 2009 13:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Ultraportable ultrasound machine paves the way for wacky ultrasound pranks]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/24/ultraportable-ultrasound-machine-paves-the-way-for-wacky-ultraso/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/24/ultraportable-ultrasound-machine-paves-the-way-for-wacky-ultraso/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/24/ultraportable-ultrasound-machine-paves-the-way-for-wacky-ultraso/#commentsIt might look more like a Radio Shack project kit than a serious piece of medical equipment, but George K. Lewis -- a third year biomedical engineering PhD student -- has developed a pocket-sized ultrasound device that can be manufactured for about $100. Typically, a biomedical ultrasound unit can weigh 30 pounds and cost upwards of $20,000. The developer has high hopes for the device -- not only will an ultraportable ultrasound bring the technology to places where it might have been impractical before (such as combat units in the field and remote populations), hopefully the inexpensive contraption will spur innovative new uses for the device. So, what's stranger -- scoping your unborn child with a homebrew ultrasound, or using an incubator that once lived as a Toyota 4Runner? That's a tough call...

[Via Inventor Spot]

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Ultraportable ultrasound machine paves the way for wacky ultrasound pranks originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 24 Dec 2008 12:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biomedicalGeorge K. LewisGeorge LewismedicalultrasoundWed, 24 Dec 2008 12:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia planning touch-less, gesture-controlled devices?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/21/nokia-planning-touch-less-gesture-controlled-devices/http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/21/nokia-planning-touch-less-gesture-controlled-devices/http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/21/nokia-planning-touch-less-gesture-controlled-devices/#comments
Usually when we're talking about Nokia and patents, a mention of Qualcomm can't be far behind. This time however, we're looking at something entirely less boring, fascinating even: ultra-sound sensors that detect hand gestures in the air in front of the device. Now the stretch. Nokia's chief designer, Alastair Curtis, was asked at a recent cocktail party why Nokia's N-series of multimedia devices have yet to see a multi-touch interface, Curtis replied, "We've not launched what we think is right for N-series in a touch product. You'll see in the coming months, years... what we feel is right." Curtis then elaborated, "Much as I'm talking to you now with gestures." Hmm. Ok Alastair, if such devices are in the chute, as long as they don't resemble the Palm V-series... we're cool.

[Thanks, Pdexter]

Read -- Patent application
Read -- Curtis quotes

Nokia planning touch-less, gesture-controlled devices? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 08:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alistair curtisAlistairCurtisgesturenokiapatenttouch-lesstouchlessultrasoundFri, 21 Nov 2008 08:09:00 EST<![CDATA[NanoVibronix cleared to market ultrasonic painkiller PainShield MD]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/27/nanovibronix-cleared-to-market-ultrasonic-painkiller-painshield/http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/27/nanovibronix-cleared-to-market-ultrasonic-painkiller-painshield/http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/27/nanovibronix-cleared-to-market-ultrasonic-painkiller-painshield/#commentsNanoVibronix's PainShield MD reminds us (a little bit) of DARPA's wound-healing ultrasound wrap, but its purpose is to stop pain, not bleeding. The pocket-sized device emits ultrasonic waves through a disposable patch that can easily be slapped onto the patient's skin. The fundamental tech isn't new, but NanoVibronix is hoping doctors and patients will pick PainShield up because it's portable and convenient; the patch means medical personnel don't have to hold or operate anything during treatment. It's just been cleared by the FDA, so it should reach the market soon-ish.

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NanoVibronix cleared to market ultrasonic painkiller PainShield MD originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 27 Oct 2008 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>healthmedicalnanovibronixnanovibronix painshield mdpainpain reliefpainshieldpainshield mdpainshieldmdpatchsoundultrasonicultrasoundMon, 27 Oct 2008 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[DARPA's latest: a wrap that stops bleeding with sound]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/24/darpas-latest-a-wrap-that-stops-bleeding-with-sound/http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/24/darpas-latest-a-wrap-that-stops-bleeding-with-sound/http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/24/darpas-latest-a-wrap-that-stops-bleeding-with-sound/#commentsDARPA's latest: a wrap that stops bleeding with sound If we had our way, all our military tax dollars would go to DARPA. Whether it be nano planes, robot arms, or high-resolution sniper scopes, it always has something interesting cooking, and today's defense-minded gadget is no different. It's called a DBAC device, for Deep Bleeder Acoustic Coagulation; basically a portable ultrasound wrap that can identify wounds ("bleeders") and reduce their severity. It uses Doppler waves to find an internal leak, then turns up the frequency and amplitude on that location to stem it, all in a completely automated fashion able to be managed by any Joe in a hot zone. Okay, so perhaps it's not as cool as a remote-controlled zombie shark, but this cuff has the potential to save many lives and limbs on the battlefield -- assuming it works. DARPA hopes to have a functional prototype ready in 18 months. [Warning: PDF read link]

[Via CNET News]

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DARPA's latest: a wrap that stops bleeding with sound originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 24 Oct 2008 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefieldcoagulationDARPADBACDeep Bleeder Accoustic CoagulationDeepBleederAccousticCoagulationdefensegovernmentmilitaryultrasoundusawarFri, 24 Oct 2008 08:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Portable medical scanners built to interface with cellphones]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/05/02/portable-medical-scanners-built-to-interface-with-cellphones/http://www.engadget.com/2008/05/02/portable-medical-scanners-built-to-interface-with-cellphones/http://www.engadget.com/2008/05/02/portable-medical-scanners-built-to-interface-with-cellphones/#comments
You know those elephant-sized medical scanners? Totally amazing machines, sure, but things like that aren't apt to be shipped into obscure jungles throughout Africa. Thankfully, a team of researchers have developed something that could bring medical scanning to an even larger chunk of the world: a real live Tricorder. Of course, it's not really going by that moniker, but the diminutive scanner is able to interface with a cellphone via USB and utilize its 3G / WiFi access to send raw scan data to servers and receive images back. Granted, you won't get any high-resolution viewing from your average mobile, but it's certainly a step in the right direction.

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Portable medical scanners built to interface with cellphones originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 02 May 2008 06:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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We've seen MacBooks re-purposed for various uses in the past, but never quite like Siemens new "P50" laptop, which takes a standard issue (if slightly outdated) MacBook Pro and outfits it with some ultrasound equipment to accomodate doctors that just can't be tied down. Apparently designed specifically for cardiology and vascular applications, this one boasts an "array of transducers," along with an integrated stress echo function and a range of cardiology application packages which, Siemens says, "considerably simplifies and accelerates the workflow in echocardiography and vascular diagnosis." Mac fans may not want to boast too much about this one, however, as it seems that Siemens has opted to use Windows as a basis for the platform.

[Via The Raw Feed]

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Siemens rolls out ultrasound-equipped MacBook Pro originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 26 Nov 2007 11:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ultrasound machines have been getting smaller for a while now, leading some doctors to claim that they'll eventually replace the stethoscope -- and Siemen's latest model, the ACUSON P10, is another step in the transition. The 1.6-pound P10 is designed to fit inside a standard white coat pocket, and can store images and video clips for later examination. The unit is currently undergoing clinical trials in the US; hopefully that "optimized price" Siemens is touting means that we'll be seeing the P10 pop up in hospitals very soon.

[Via MedGadget]

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Siemens unveils the P10 handheld ultrasound machine originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 26 Jun 2007 23:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acusonacuson p10AcusonP10medicinesiemensultrasoundTue, 26 Jun 2007 23:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Ultreo toothbrush uses ultrasound, but can it clean teeth?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/02/24/ultreo-toothbrush-uses-ultrasound-but-can-it-clean-teeth/http://www.engadget.com/2007/02/24/ultreo-toothbrush-uses-ultrasound-but-can-it-clean-teeth/http://www.engadget.com/2007/02/24/ultreo-toothbrush-uses-ultrasound-but-can-it-clean-teeth/#comments
Riveting news from the world of dental hygiene: the Ultreo ultrasonic toothbrush has officially launched, promising what sounds like the ultimate brush session -- oh you know, "ultrasound waveguide technology" and "precisely tuned sonic bristle action" and stuff like that. Unlike traditional sonic units that only use audible frequencies of 20Hz to 20,000Hz, Ultreo uses a tuned sonic / ultrasonic (over 20,000Hz) combo to offer more enamel-rattling power without compromising the user's veneers, bridges, or general safety. There's a programmable replacement indicator that prompts a brush head switch-out every 3 months, and the 2-minute auto shut-off timer makes sure you don't cop out too early. For about $149.00, true tooth-o-philes can sink their chompers into this latest addition to the bourgie toothbrush market.

[Thanks, Eric B]

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Ultreo toothbrush uses ultrasound, but can it clean teeth? originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 24 Feb 2007 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dentaldental hygieneDentalHygienehygieneteethtoothbrushultrasonicultrasoundUltreoSat, 24 Feb 2007 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Mini-Z T-ray imaging device takes home the gold]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/02/17/mini-z-t-ray-imaging-device-takes-home-the-gold/http://www.engadget.com/2007/02/17/mini-z-t-ray-imaging-device-takes-home-the-gold/http://www.engadget.com/2007/02/17/mini-z-t-ray-imaging-device-takes-home-the-gold/#commentsWe're all about giving golf claps where they're due, and a healthy round is certainly in order for Mr. Brian Schulkin. The doctoral student in physics developed a breakthrough terahertz imaging device, dubbed a T-ray, that has already demonstrated its ability to "detect cracks in space shuttle foam, image tumors in breast tissue, and spot counterfeit watermarks on paper currency." The Mini-Z marks the first time such a powerful device has become portable in nature, weighing just five pounds and taking up about as much space as your average laptop. Taking home the first Lemelson-Rensselaer Student Prize ($30,000), Schulkin explained that this device didn't pose the same health risks as typical X-rays, and unlike ultrasound, terahertz waves can provide images and spectroscopic information without contacting an object. As expected, the patent-pending technology is already up for licensing, and has already received quite a bit of fanfare and commercial interest from larger companies. So while you may never personally encounter Brian's earth-shattering invention, we're fairly sure this young lad's working days are already drawing nigh if he so chooses.

[Via Physorg]

Mini-Z T-ray imaging device takes home the gold originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 17 Feb 2007 06:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awardelectromagneticexplosivesimagingLemelson-Rensselaermicrowavemini-znasapatentpatentedpatentsphysicsprizeradiationsciencesecuritysensingsensorsshuttlespacespectrometerstudentt-rayterahertzultrasoundx-raySat, 17 Feb 2007 06:05:00 EST<![CDATA[LipoSonix aiming for non-invasive body sculpting]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/01/liposonix-aiming-for-non-invasive-body-sculpting/http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/01/liposonix-aiming-for-non-invasive-body-sculpting/http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/01/liposonix-aiming-for-non-invasive-body-sculpting/#commentsWe're sure there's quite a few of you out there that have already vowed to make good use of that Nike+iPod kit you received this holiday season in order to shape up in 2007, but for those who just don't have the time (or adequate willpower), LipoSonix could help you fool everyone into thinking you actually kept your resolution. While liposuction has become frighteningly common here in the States, a Seattle-based medical device company is hoping to give folks a "less invasive" alternative to the messy methods currently used. Preferring the term "body sculpting," the company claims that its technology "works by focusing high-intensity ultrasound through the skin into precise locations within subcutaneous adipose tissue, which permanently disrupts the adipocytes without damaging the epidermis, dermis, or underlying tissues and organs." In short, a specially crafted ultrasound transducer can purportedly eliminate unwanted tissue quickly, causing "minimal downtime and bruising" to patients, and hopefully costing less than procedures done today. Although we can't promise this (admittedly bizarre) technology will be available by year's end, initial clinical testing has reportedly been quite successful, but until a few more guinea pigs have survived for an extended period of time, we'll be sticking with the tried and true "working out" method.

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LipoSonix aiming for non-invasive body sculpting originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 01 Jan 2007 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bodybody sculptingBodySculptinghealthinvasivelipoliposonixliposuctionmedicalultrasonicultrasoundvainvainityMon, 01 Jan 2007 11:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Bosch unveils parking space measurement system]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/12/14/bosch-unveils-parking-space-measurement-system/http://www.engadget.com/2006/12/14/bosch-unveils-parking-space-measurement-system/http://www.engadget.com/2006/12/14/bosch-unveils-parking-space-measurement-system/#commentsWhile Toyota already has its self-parking Prius on the streets, and Volkswagen (not to mention BMW and Honda) isn't too far behind, Citroën is joining the fold thanks to a newly-unveiled system developed by Bosch. Citing the C4 Picasso as the "world's first car to feature integrated parking space measurement," Bosch apparently hopes to get its own snazzy parking assistant on more rides in the future. The system utilizes six total sensors on the front / rear of the vehicle to gauge parking space dimesntions (and alert you of obstacles) while cruising by at up to 12.5-miles per hour, and can inform the driver if the space he / she is eying is too small, "a tight squeeze," or just right. The system initiates the measuring process when the motorist tags a button on their steering wheel, and looks to the right or left depending on which turn signal is in use. While not quite as advanced as Toyota's gig, Bosch hopes to upgrade its system to allow the vehicle itself to control the maneuvering sometime in 2008, but those not able to hold out can pick up the current rendition real soon.

[Via Gizmag]

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Bosch unveils parking space measurement system originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 14 Dec 2006 12:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assistantboschc4citroengermanymeasurementparkingparking spaceParkingSpacepicassoultrasoundThu, 14 Dec 2006 12:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Plug and Play Ultrasound Probe]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/05/26/plug-and-play-ultrasound-probe/http://www.engadget.com/2006/05/26/plug-and-play-ultrasound-probe/http://www.engadget.com/2006/05/26/plug-and-play-ultrasound-probe/#comments We can't really remember the last time we walked into a Best Buy looking for a nice portable USB ultrasound solution, but it's comforting to know that such a future might be in store for us. The new Plug and Play Ultrasound Probe System (PPUPS) from Direct Medical Systems forgoes the usual ultrasound cart by letting you use your laptop or desktop computer to process the ultrasound signal from the USB 2.0 probe. The PPUPS weighs a mere 7.5 ounces, and comes in different frequency versions to match common ultrasound applications. DMS is still waiting on FDA approval for the device, but once that goes through you should be able to pick one of these suckers of up for $3700.

[Via Medgadget]

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Plug and Play Ultrasound Probe originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 26 May 2006 03:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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