Is there a development environment to create something like the macbook wheel idea?

June 19, 2009 12:43 PM

Is there a development environment where I can create something inspired by (but not the same) as the macbook wheel, i.e. a graphical alphabet interface where letters can be chosen by a controller? Also how can I experiment with using different controllers - wii, trackball touchpad etc?

It's supposed to be a parody, but I immediately thought that this kind of thing had potential to create an rsi free interface by using large movements to select letters instead of typing.

I'm not a coder, but I'd love to have a crack at making a graphical interface to select letters with a controller. I know that in the computer music world, the max development environment allows you to use input from various controllers including dataglove and wii to manipulate musical devices.

Is there anything similar where I can create a graphical alphabet interface that can hopefully be moved around in 3 dimensions to select letters? I'm thinking at the moment that I will use something like 2 wii controllers to capture large circular movements of the arms to move the 'keyboard thing' around, and to have a way of switching to control the mouse pointer.

In order to be useful, the thing will eventually have to sit in the background and replace the keyboard and mouse in normal use.

It doesn't look like gesture control is far enough along for the likes of me to use, but if you know something about this let me know.

If any computer people are interested in collaborating on this, drop me a line. I know a fair bit about rsi, ergonomics and the body and I'm keen to get it made for myself to use!

posted by Not Supplied to technology (6 comments total)

I think this TED video would interest you.

I believe the programs he's written to interact with the Wii remote are available on his website. If nothing else, maybe this could be some inspiration.
posted by rancidchickn at 1:24 PM on June 19

Also of interest may be Dasher, compiled in C++ and hosted by the GNOME Project.
posted by EnsignLunchmeat at 1:47 PM on June 19

Processing + Correct hardware drivers?
posted by wongcorgi at 4:13 PM on June 19

You should look at some of the research into chording keyboards, and associated alphanumeric data entry gestures that replace single-entry clicking. I had one in the 1980s that worked pretty well, but I found the learning curve was never-ending. And then along came inexpensive mice and better, full-stroke keyboards. I did rig up my Mattel PowerGlove to gesture out Midi chords+effects and syllables, but again, the payoff seemed minimal compared to conventional data entry systems. Maybe newer tech might tip the balance?
posted by meehawl at 4:16 PM on June 19

Thanks...all very apt things to follow up. I love the Johnny Lee stuff....looks like there's some really interesting things in the pipeline with controllers like that xbox/microsoft gesture control system.
posted by Not Supplied at 4:01 AM on June 20

The orbiTouch is a keyless "keyboard" that uses movement/directionality to select letters. It can switch between keyboard and mouse functionality, and is billed as an ergonomic alternative to a keyboard. I've wanted one since I saw it several years ago, but it's pretty expensive. Maybe it will give you some ideas to pursue.
posted by rakaidan at 12:42 PM on June 23