Interesting story on a previous CES winner
This story was done by Fast Company.com
Doubters - please read twice and then in between the lines...
Virtual Control … at the Speed of Light
Bruce and M.G. Howard
Founders, Lightglove
Sudley Springs - VA US
What did you accomplish in 2004?
In January, our technology won a Best of Innovation Award at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. This prestigious award garnered worldwide recognition and brought our technology out of a cloistered environment. On Day 1 of CES, a chance meeting with Bill Gates resulted in a successful demonstration at the Microsoft “Home of the Future”. Later in the year, two additional patents were awarded for the technology and foreign filings initiated. After the response from CES, the global marketplace seemed quite eager to embrace our technology so the foreign patents will make sure those markets will be protected.
How did you do it?
Our road to Las Vegas began one day when I received an email that offered up a bold question. Do you know a GENIUS? Fact is I did, and I began thinking that some global recognition may be just what was needed to bring this technology “out of the closet”. We decided to apply for the Consumer Electronics Association’s (CEA) Innovations program in the area of Accessibility. Our technology, called Lightglove, was originally conceived after the inventor watched his mother struggle with Carpal Tunnel. Previously a gifted artist with Secret Service, the condition and surgeries left her unable to create or draw as she once had. A talented and resourceful engineer, Bruce Howard decided to find a new way for people to interface with their computers that didn’t require restrictive hand position and was easier on the wrist and fingers. Using lights to sense the hand from a small wrist worn device, he inadvertently created the first virtual controller that was a “no impact” light button. Luckily, the people at the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) understood the concept and awarded him their Design and Engineering award as well as their Best of Innovation. Sound bites from the show included “Starship Enterprise-like wireless wrist remote that operates all the electronics in your smart home” and “Real-world business app: Provides a sterile interface for medical professionals and staff.” Business 2.0 had summed it up in two sentences. Our goal of getting the concept out had been achieved.
What were the major obstacles that you faced?
Our idea of virtual control without wearing a VR glove was so extreme, getting people to understand the concept was very difficult. A turning point came with the movie “Minority Report” when Tom Cruise manipulated the onscreen data wearing gloves with lights on them. After that we could just say, “Our device does that but without the gloves.” Lightglove is a disruptive technology, which means it may someday replace other types of interface devices. Therefore, another major hurdle was overcoming the repression and disinformation perpetuated by our well funded and widespread competitors. False statements such as the technology didn’t work, our investors had “lost their shirts” or that we needed lasers to sense the hand (only necessary for underwater applications) made it difficult to gain any traction. Determining friend from foe was also very challenging. As for the money people, they had become RISK AVERSE SQUARED and funding an out-of-the-box technology was nowhere in their plans. Despite the unrelenting body blows, progress continued and a sense of determination was solidified. As Nietzsche said, “That which does not kill us makes us stronger.” It was then determined that this much back pressure meant we really must be onto something big.
What was the result?
The CES award response has been overwhelming. Distributors from around the world want to carry the Lightglove and with the necessary backing, that will become a reality. Various uses of the technology are being explored such as a smart home controller and intrinsically safe “no spark” uses for oil and drilling operations. The fact that so many know about Lightglove and have seen it work via our “fresh gear” piece, means that the nay sayers no longer have any power to repress this technology. The strength that comes from perseverance and a deep knowing that what you are doing is right, can bring you through considerable obstacles. People from around the world are looking for a new interface device that will either ease their pain, prevent pain or create a better standard of living. We’ve received inquiries from patients and attorneys concerning mobility issues, musical luminaries looking for some pizzazz, and gamers looking for the next big thing. Being able to turn on a light, surf the internet or play a game with a minimum of effort will be a Godsend to many. The wow factor of using a virtual controller will bring a smile to the rest.
What are your goals for 2005?
Our goal is to bring this to the medical industry and our sights are still there. However we have decided to pick up the pace a bit. Next stop, GAMING. Our new slogan is “a VR glove w/out the glove… now that’s virtual.” We’ve even been approached by a game box developer so it’s in their psyche. In 2005, we will complete the gaming design and submit it for CES 2006. A recent email from a physical therapist said she is working with a paralyzed boy who wants to play video games. Now that’s what we’re talking about!