The Leap Motion controller is like a Kinect but for your computer. The new Leap Motion controller allows you to use your computer without the use of your mouse or keyboard. You move your hands around just like you do in real life. It senses the motion of your hands so you are able to point, wave, reach, pick something up and put it down.
The Leap Motion controller is small and light, taking up hardly any space on your desk. This device is about 3’’ long and plugs right into the USB slot and is then placed in front of your keyboard. Your hands go in the space above it.
Air Space, the app store, allows you to download games, draw, play instruments, and listen to music. You can browse the web and scroll through photos and music with just a lift of your finger. Draw a picture or paint with just your fingertips or even with an actual pencil or paintbrush. Build 3D models. Play any instrument you want. You can pick, pluck, strum, and drum. It converts all natural movements into sound. “It’s really fun to use and really unique,” said Timothy McCarter.
This device makes gaming even more realistic. Steer, shoot, grab, slice, pull, crush–all with the use of your hands and fingers. “I feel like Iron Man,” stated senior Zach Perry. You can even explore space. Grab any planet, or reach for the stars. Explore the universe.”I could play with this all day!” said Armon Mobasher.
Multimedia Design teacher Brandy Panagos, owner and user of a Leap Motion controller, finds the device very convenient for her because it saves time. With just a swipe of her hand, Google comes up. With just a sweep of her fingers, it highlights and searches words and phrases for her. She also believes the 3D visualization is a great way to help students learn. For example, an app connects to the device and lets individuals study the skeleton by “pulling out” different bones of the body and getting a closer look.
“Mostly, I like the potential for it. I don’t think the current app store will impress many people, but I think it has great potential,” stated Panagos. “The current motion sensing takes some practice. It was probably the best arm workout I’ve had in a while.”
Technological advancement is obviously accelerating. Will devices like the Leap Motion controller lead to a totally new wave of motion-sensing technology? Will technology like this be adopted into work places and school systems?
How could this change society?
