CES 2010

While everyone is busy thinking the future of video-game interfacing is Microsoft's Project Natal, UK-based Cambridge Consultants decided to change the way controllers interact with our hands. The Suma is a pliable, 3-D controller that senses how and where your hand moves.


Underneath its skin, the Suma has a matrix of sensors, an accelerometer and a squeezable foam core. The three work together to create a virtual map of how your hand is moving, tilting and applying pressure. Their floor concept demo is about the size of a tennis ball and designed to match the object in a ball-maze video game, but the Suma platform can be wrapped into any shape necessary to suit its application.

Right now, the design concept is not being commercially applied to a product, but Suma reps told us that they've had a lot of interest in development from 3-D rendering companies, video-game makers and even toy manufacturers. On a humanitarian level, the Suma can also easily have medical or physical therapy applications to treat motor ailments like arthritis.

[PopSci at CES]

8 Comments

What I really want is a Wii football controller that I can "throw" like a real football. Imagine throwing bombs to Randy Moss or Larry Fitzgerald instead of holding down a button. Just like in Wii Sports, your arm throwing motion controls how hard or at what angle the throw is at and maybe a button release to let the software know when to release the ball from your hands (because, you obviously can't throw the controller but just motion like you would). You could control movement of the QB with the Nunchuk.

If they can get it to where it's accurate and intuitive, I'd pay good money to play it.

Would you really pay good money to play it? I mean, the whole point of video games is for us to live in fantasy worlds. If I have to play a Madden football game that counts on my throwing abilities to find targets and gauge strength I don't think I'd ever win a game.

I'm concerned that some of the gaming is coming out of these newer simulation controllers. I certainly see value for some games, but the day I need to have a gallon of Gatorade so I can play my football games is the day I quit playing them on the TV.

BJ's got a point, but I agree with rpenri... Life-like motion would take it to a whole new gaming experience.

BJ

I agree that it's to be in a fantasy world...but I don't need to actually have the strength to throw 60 yards. Just have the arm motion. I can throw a football, very well, but my hands are smaller so I can't throw it very far because it tends to slip out the harder I throw it (maybe it's me and my technique, dunno).

But video games already require quick timing, thinking, and a bit of strategy as well. So, why not? Also, you really can't control how high you throw it versus how hard you throw it and whatnot. You just can't get that type of control of the football with a button.

Also, if they did somehow miraculously implement what I said, it'd still be a fantasy because obviously, Ray Lewis isn't gonna actually fall on me and crush the life out of me, will he?

The lady in the film stinks at the game.

nothing really ground-breaking here. It doesnt look like much more than a wii controller with more sensors.

Beecher Bowers
www.desktopgaming.com

The gaming industry is shifting and moving at a rate that is often difficult for consumers maintain knowledge and interest. However, occasionally we view a product that improves our vast collection of gadgets and tools that increase our enjoyment.

On the January 11th, 2010 SUMA'S release of the football Australian rules) shaped controller has done just that! The controller is activated by sensors and shapes within your palm. The gaming company claims that the SUMA will respond depending on the game you are playing.

Fabien
www.i-love-bingo.co.uk

Somehow, video clips are a lot less difficult then books or documentation. An incredible starting stage. Any plans on a portion two - interacting with your database? http://www.teslaenergyplan.com/rss.xml

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