Gunze shows touchscreen that knows who touches it
updated 07:35 pm EST, Tue February 21, 2012
Smart screen could be used for gaming apps
Last week, Japan-based Gunze demonstrated an intelligent touch panel that is aware of who is touching it in a specific location. Armed with this information, a computer can then keep track and provide individualized responses. The company demonstrated the prototype at the Nanotechnology Exhibition & Conference recently held in Tokyo.
The capacitive touch panel employs a transparent conductive film developed by the company. To use it, an individual either touches one of four electrodes located around the screen or can be sitting in a specially equipped chair. The system only allows input when the screen and electrode are touched simultaneously, completing a curcuit. The different electrodes can be associated with different functions. The company sees potential commercial opportunities for arcades and other gaming hardware.
Founded in 1886, Gunze had its origins in the silk trade. It has now crossed over into clothing and "lifestyle" technology, including low-resistance optical films. [via Tech-On]
