Given the speed of technology we are currently enjoying, it’s actually no surprise that a group has filed for a patent for an integral part of a future smart home– the floor.
IBM has been recently granted a patent by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for a multitouch floor that would be able to detect various shapes and weights and differentiate them as adults, children, or pets. If you’re not authorized, so to speak, to step on the floor, be ready for the police.
Security and Monitoring Benefits
Aside from security purposes, the multitouch floor has also other advantages– it can help parents monitor their tots; it can alert vacationing elders when there are more than six people in the house (Partying teenagers, perhaps?); and it can detect if someone is lying on the floor, indicating illness; among other potential uses. For instance, in a smart home environment, the floor could be integrated with other smart devices to provide a comprehensive security system. Imagine a scenario where the floor detects an unauthorized entry and immediately locks the doors, turns on the lights, and sends an alert to the homeowner’s smartphone. This could significantly enhance the security measures in place, making homes safer and more secure.
Potential Applications and Future Prospects
The potential applications of such a multitouch floor extend beyond just security and monitoring. In healthcare, for example, the floor could be used in hospitals and elderly care facilities to monitor patients’ movements and detect falls, ensuring timely medical assistance. In retail environments, the floor could analyze customer foot traffic patterns, helping store managers optimize product placement and improve the shopping experience. Additionally, in office spaces, the floor could be used to monitor employee movements, ensuring that restricted areas are accessed only by authorized personnel.
IBM, however, seems unsure when, where, and how to use the idea. According to IBM spokesman Christopher Andrews, “The newly-patented invention is not part of a product or solution and we can’t speculate about if or how it will be implemented.” This statement suggests that while the technology holds immense potential, its practical application is still in the conceptual stage. It will be interesting to see how IBM or other companies might develop this technology further and integrate it into real-world solutions.
Moreover, the multitouch floor could also play a significant role in enhancing the user experience in smart homes. For example, it could be programmed to recognize specific family members and adjust the home environment accordingly. When a child steps on the floor, it could automatically turn on child-friendly lighting and lock cabinets containing hazardous materials. When an adult steps on the floor, it could adjust the thermostat to their preferred temperature and play their favorite music. The possibilities are endless, and the technology could be tailored to meet the unique needs of each household.
The multitouch floor patented by IBM represents a significant advancement in smart home technology. Its ability to detect and differentiate between various shapes and weights opens up a myriad of possibilities for enhancing security, monitoring, and user experience. While the technology is still in its early stages, its potential applications are vast and varied. As we continue to embrace the rapid pace of technological innovation, it will be fascinating to see how this and other smart home technologies evolve and transform our daily lives.
via Innovation News Daily
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
