Google is working on a prototype of a smart cord of sorts which help users control their music, other media by tapping, twisting and pressing on cords.
HIGHLIGHTS
Google in its AI blog stated that it is experimenting with a new product of e-textile, HSM cords.
These cords are touch sensitive since they have receptors and also have fiber optics for feedback
Google has previously come up with e-fabric wearables like insole shoes, jackets and backpacks.
Google is experimenting with a prototype for touch sensitive e-textile cord to control music and other media. The prototype of the fabric cord has been made with what Google calls Helical Sensing Matrix (HSM) which helps the user control music by simply using his fingers.
Since these cords are touch sensitive, instructions can be given depending upon the discretion of the user. The user can either single tap, double tap, twist or apply pressure on the cord.
Google stated that it focused on e-fabric cords as they come in handy for various purposes like drawstrings in hoodies or pull overs. They are also used as wired connections for data and power across consumer devices.
This HSM comes in braided form of insulated e-fabric or yarns which are designed to transmit and receive messages which enable mutual capacitive sensing.
The capacitive coupling at their intersections is modulated by the user’s fingers, and these interactions can be sensed anywhere on the cord since the braided pattern repeats along the length, Google noted.
Check for more detail:- https://www.indiatoday.inGoogle’s experimental ‘smart braid’ headphone wire controls music with a squeeze
Pinch it, pat it, squeeze it, swipe it
From touch-sensitive jean jackets to radar controls in smartphones, Google has always had a penchant for weird and wonderful user interfaces. Its latest is the “I/O braid” — a textile UI that lets users control electronics by pinching, patting, squeezing, or swiping a fabric cord.
The braid uses what Google calls a “helical sensing matrix” (or HSM) to register commands from users. A series of capacitive and conductive yarns are woven into the braid, allowing it to identify when it’s touched by someone’s hand with 360 degrees of visibility. Fiber optic strings are also woven into the fabric to provide visual feedback.
Although the braid is very much just a research project at this point, Google suggests a number of ways it could be integrated into consumer electronics. You could use it to add touch controls to the power cord on a smartphone speaker, for example, or to your headphones. Or you could create a hoodie with touch-sensitive drawstrings that connect to your phone and control your music.
Check for more detail:- https://www.theverge.com
Comments