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Mitsumi exhibits micro-vibration power generator and batteryless RF switch (video)
This picture from Mitsumi's CEATEC booth may not seem to say much, but it's certainly showing the future. The silver cylinder at the top is actually a small power generating device that converts micro-vibrations into usable energy, so stick one of these on, say, a ventilation duct and you should just about get enough juice to power a calculator or even an LED. In fact, Mitsumi says these can be integrated into the RF sensor network of large air conditioning facilities, as an RF transmitter can run on very little power these days -- even less than a calculator. Alas, a company rep said this product won't be available until 2014. Speaking of RF, Mitsumi does have something even more awesome that will be launched sooner. You see that black stick on the left? Embedded inside it is a batteryless RF switch, and the way it works is that upon the release of the spring mechanism inside, a tiny bit of power is generated for the 2.4GHz RF transmission (ZigBee compatible), and whatever device is connected to the RF control outlet on the other end will receive the on or off signal. So yes, you basically get a switch that requires no wiring nor power (except for the receiving end)! Expect this to hit the shelves in March 2013. For now, we have a hands-on video after the break.
Report: Wii parts production shrinks
[Don Fulano] A slowdown in Wii production can only mean one thing: Nintendo has cured the injured, ailing and aged -- there's no more work left to be done. While saving the world proved vastly lucrative for Nintendo, it also benefited the manufactures behind the scenes; or, as we like to call them, the magic makers. Nikkei reports that Wii parts suppliers, Mitsumi Electric Co. and Hosiden Corp., have significantly reduced their yearly profits forecasts following a decrease in orders to assemble Wii consoles. Mitsumi predicts its net profits will fall 52 percent year-over-year to ¥5.3 billion ($61.2 million), down from the previously projected ¥7 billion. Hosiden expects a similar drop, from the forecast ¥7.5 billion down to ¥6 billion. These percentage changes are eerily similar to the figure reported in Nintendo's half-year results, posted at the end of October. Are the numbers trying to tell us something? Yep, there's still plenty of money being made and, apparently, more world to save. [Via MarketWatch] Source – "As Wii Stumbles, Parts Suppliers' Earnings Tumble" [Nikkei.com; subscription required]
Mitsumi haptic input device could enable one-handed mobile operation
If you're frustrated with how difficult it is to control your touchscreen-based mobile with just one hand, Mitsumi clearly feels your pain. At a recent presentation, the outfit highlighted a new haptic input device that would ideally be situated on the rear of a handset / PMP and enable users to activate applications without having to use another hand to do so. The device consists of "a sheet with small protrusions, a resistance sensitive touch pad and switches," and while the prototype was a tad unsightly, the firm is hoping to reduce the thickness before taking it commercial. Yeah, we're patiently waiting for mind control, but we suppose this would do in the meantime.[Via FarEastGizmos]