Biometric software uses hand gestures for computer control

Neurotechnology, a Lithuanian-based provider of high-precision biometric identification, object recognition and computer vision technologies, announced the availability of NPointer, a new tool for computer control and navigation that uses simple hand gestures instead of a mouse or touch pad. The new program, which is available as a free download, requires no special hardware, just a standard webcam and the NPointer software.

“NPointer is the first step toward gesture recognition that does not require special hardware,” said Vaidas Didvalis, NPointer project leader. “We expect this technology will find many new fields of application and, based on user feedback, we will continue to improve it.”

NPointer works with any standard, movable webcam and a PC or laptop computer with 1.6 GHz or better processor running the Windows XP or newer operating system. The software tool allows the user to control standard Windows programs by enabling the user to scroll, click, double-click, drag and navigate around the computer screen using hand movements. NPointer is based on computer vision technology that turns the webcam into a controller when it is pointed at the hand. Easy-to-learn gestural controls map to the natural placement of the hand and fingers palm-down on a desk or hovering just above it, and the visual interface shows semi-transparent “buttons” and controls that temporarily layer over the computer screen. NPointer also enables disabled people to use head movements to control the computer.

The software tool can be downloaded for free at: www.neurotechnology.com/npointer.html.

The tool utilizes Neurotechnology’s SentiSight SDK for the development of object recognition, computer vision and robotics applications. The entire line of Neurotechnology SDK products for object recognition and biometric identification are available with highly competitive licensing options through Neurotechnology or from distributors worldwide.

Article Topics

biometrics  |  gesture  |  gesture recognition  |  identification  |  laptops  |  neuroscience  |  pc  |  software