Mimi Switch shows a new way to control gadgets

The scientist at Osaka University, Japan has devised a gadget that can control other gadgets. Mimi Switch can start a new track on the iPod, turn on the room lights and even start a washing machine, all with the help of user’s facial expression.

The device looks like a normal earphone but is fitted with infrared sensors that track movements in the ears which are caused by the different facial expressions.

The inventor, Kazuhiro Taniguchi says “an iPod can start or stop music when the wearer sticks his tongue out. If he opens his eyes wide, the machine skips to the next tune. A wink with the right eye makes it go back.”

The Switch also boasts other useful applications apart from controlling music. Mimi Switch monitors the natural movements of the user’s face and it can play a song if it feels the user is sad. It can also be used by old people that can say how often they eat or could serve as a remote control for the physically challenged.

The invention is currently a working prototype and is expected to come to the real world within the next 2-3 years.

[Via SMH]

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