Panasonic has developed a data transmission system that can exchange information through human touch.
The prototype human body communication device sends data at up to 100kbps through a radio field on a person's skin. When they touch an object or person with a suitable transreceiver, data can be exchanged.
The device is on show at this week's Ceatec electronics show in Japan through several color-coded demonstrations.
In one, for example, a person can hold a color-coded ball. When they touch a sensor connected to a lamp, data on the color of the ball is sent to the lamp and it changes color to match.
The demonstrations are simplistic but prove the system works. Panasonic envisages it might be used in the future for more practical purposes, such as exchanging contact information with people through a handshake or unlocking a door by simply placing a handle on a door knob.
At present, the technology is still too big to fit inside something practical, like a wristwatch or smartphone, but Panasonic is confident it can be miniaturized if there is demand for such a system.
Next read this:
- 20 ways to kill your IT career (without knowing it)
- 16 time-saving tips for IT leaders
- CIO resumes: 6 best practices and 4 strong examples
- Why IT-business alignment still fails
- Top 12 ITSM tools for 2018
- 6 most-dreaded IT projects
- CIO playbook: 10 tips for leading IT in the digital era
- 15 ways to advance your IT career
- 7 habits of highly effective digital transformations