Sensor-Virrig - A Balance Cushion as Controller

Abstract

We introduce the extension of a standard balance cushion with sensors that capture all possible movements of the person situated on it. Several different basic activities can easily be distinguished. Thus, the cushion can be used as an input device emulating, e.g., mouse movements and clicks as well as providing an additional degree of freedom (rotation). Possible applications include but are not restricted to educational purposes especially for younger children. It is expected that physical interaction helps to increase fun, social familiarization and long-term learning results. Author Keywords ubiquitous computing, input device, sensors, cursor, mouse, game controller, fun, playful computing