Disney’s researchers have created an unusual yet innovative technology that can convert plants into multitouch controllers. This groundbreaking development allows certain areas of the plants to be assigned specific triggers that can be used to play music or interact with software. Imagine being able to control your smart home devices or play a melody simply by touching a leaf or stem.
Watch the video after the jump to learn more about the Botanicus Interacticus project and see it in action, on both living and artificial plants.
How It Works
The transformation of the plants into gesture controllers is simple, non-invasive, and does not damage the plants. Only a single wire is placed anywhere in the soil, making the setup both elegant and efficient. This wire acts as a sensor that can detect various types of interactions with the plant.
“The interaction with plants goes beyond simple touch and allows rich gestural interaction. Examples include: sliding fingers on the stem of the orchid, detecting touch and grasp location, tracking proximity, and estimating the amount of touch contact between user and a plant.”
This means that the technology can differentiate between a light touch and a firm grasp, or even track the movement of your fingers along the plant’s surface. This level of sensitivity opens up a plethora of interactive possibilities, from educational tools to innovative musical instruments.
Applications and Future Possibilities
The new technology opens the door for a myriad of new possibilities. One can be seen at the SIGGRAPH Emerging Technology conference in Los Angeles, where an entire garden has been transformed into an interactive experience. Visitors can engage with the plants in ways that were previously unimaginable, creating a unique blend of nature and technology.
For instance, in a smart home setting, you could use a plant to control lighting or temperature. Imagine walking into a room and adjusting the lights by simply touching a leaf. In educational settings, this technology could be used to teach children about plant biology in a more interactive and engaging way. Museums and botanical gardens could also use this technology to create interactive exhibits that educate and entertain visitors.
Moreover, artists and musicians could find new ways to express themselves. A musician could create a living instrument, where different parts of a plant produce different sounds or effects. This could lead to entirely new genres of music and performance art.
The potential applications are endless, and as the technology continues to develop, we can expect to see even more innovative uses. The Botanicus Interacticus project is just the beginning, and it will be exciting to see how this technology evolves and integrates into our daily lives.
Source: Toms Hardware
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