Squeezable interface

Cambridge Consultants has developed a unique ‘squeezable’ user-interface technology that creates a whole new way of interacting with computers.

The patent-pending Suma sensor system translates the three dimensional deformation of a squeezed object into a software-readable form.

Enabling highly sensitive control by finger movements and whole-hand grip in this way means that Suma-based devices can capture far more of the degrees of freedom of the hand than conventional controllers, without the need for cumbersome gloves or sensors.

A Suma-based device is like a traditional gaming controller with the normal casework replaced by a ‘Suma skin’. This incorporates the proprietary Suma sensor network at an incremental parts cost of less than $1 (60p), according to the company.

Cambridge Consultants claims that the Suma system will enable companies developing a wide variety of products and applications - from gaming and design to music and creative arts - to unleash the full capabilities of both the human hand and the user’s imagination.

Cambridge Consultants is demonstrating a prototype gaming controller based on the new squeezable Suma technology at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas from 7-10 January 2010.