IFT 401 Information Technology Capstone I
Innovation Exploration
GLAMOS
Crowdfunding Research
GLAMOS is a plug-and-play Bluetooth motion sensor that controls compatible devices such as phones, tablets, laptops, desktops, and smart televisions (“GLAMOS: Bring Your Touchless Screens To Life”, p. 1). It is unique for its use of LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensors, a form of technology commonly used in autonomous vehicles, robots, and other devices. LiDAR detection is a surveying method that uses light, in the form of a laser, to accurately measure variable distances from the point of contact. GLAMOS offers an interactive space with a 3-foot radius and 180-degree field of view where users can input gestures such as taps and swipes that correspond to on-screen actions. Accepted gestures vary depending on the application.
Scenario
GLAMOS has a function in every environment. Its gesture recognition allows users to give professional presentations in workplace and education scenarios with ease. GLAMOS counters the need for laser pointers and trips to and from the computer to transition between presentation slides. Instead, users can stay positioned at the center of the room and perform all necessary tasks through the LiDAR sensor. GLAMOS also provides convenience in home environments by acting as a pointing device for smart televisions, negating the need for remote control. This makes private entertainment, such as streaming services and videogames, more intuitive.
Framework
Hardware
GLAMOS can be implemented by customizing and integrating existing hardware. A LiDAR sensor is used to detect specific hand gestures that are imported as raw data to an interface card on the device’s motherboard. The interface card then converts the input data into command-line arguments that are sent to the paired device(s) via Bluetooth radio or USB connection.
Software
The internal operating system on the device’s interface card analyzes the input data, or gestures, and translates them to a language recognized by pointing devices such as mice. Variable software configurations should be considered during the device setup to maximize orientation compatibility. Depending on the orientation of GLAMOS in relation to the paired device, inverted controls may be required.
Data
GLAMOS accepts data in the form of hand gestures. The embedded LiDAR sensor creates an invisible barrier with defined dimensions where these gestures are accepted. Any data input outside of the radius and field of view will not be accepted.
Procedures
GLAMOS is connected through Bluetooth pairing or using the supplied USB cable. The device orientation is continuously monitored to provide automated configuration changes. Once GLAMOS reads the user input, all accepted data is converted to a language understood by the device in use. Finally, the converted signal is sent to the end device for processing.
People
In order for the GLAMOS project to be successfully implemented, it needs financial support from backers. CodeDAR, the company behind the product, is seeking ten thousand dollars from its Kickstarter campaign, and will only move forward if the goal is met. As of January 31st, 2020, CodeDAR has received $171,747 in pledges from 1,047 backers with roughly one month remaining before the campaign ends.
Care Go
Crowdfunding Research
Care Go, by Alphahōm, is an iOS pairable personal alarm that puts a literal and figurative twist on GPS tracking devices. The product has a unique combination of features that set it apart from other devices. Some features include SOS alerts, Realtime location tracking, and an audible alert that can be used as a locator. In addition, Care Go boasts a 1-year battery life (“Care Go™: Personal Alarm Designed to Save Lives”, p. 1), a feat obtained by depending on the host device for core services such as GPS and communication.
Scenario
The features of Care Go are important to individuals of all ages. Senior citizens can use the SOS alert function to notify family or friends in situations of distress. Further, parents can be notified of a child’s trip home through a twist of the top cap to activate real-time tracking. Care Go can also be used to keep a spouse in the loop during a late-night jog or trip to the grocery store. This device is special because it can be attached to keys, wallets, backpacks, belt loops, and other personal belongings. In dangerous situations, similar SOS applications may be inaccessible. Care Go offers better protection through a more accessible medium.
Framework
Hardware
Care Go utilizes different switches for its pull and twist functions. In addition, the device possesses a built-in speaker that provides an audible location alert if it is ever lost. The Care Go application allows a Bluetooth radio connection to the host device. There is also a USB Type-C port located on the bottom of the device to charge the internal lithium-ion battery.
Software
Through a Bluetooth connection, Care Go connects and transmits instructions to its corresponding mobile application. If the device is activated to use the “Follow Me” mode, the individuals listed as “protectors” will receive phone notifications and have access to the user’s location in real-time. Care Go is only available on iOS devices due to the nature of Android’s operating system and application format.
Data
Care Go shares and stores its users’ location data in a private server that lives in Google’s cloud environment. Due to the device’s purpose, double-layer security and GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) compliance have been implemented to ensure the user’s security.
Procedures
Care Go initiated actions, such as pulling or twisting the cap sends a distinctive signal to the iOS application. The application then determines the priority of the action and generates an appropriate message to send to selected contacts. When the contacts receive the message, the application determines and outputs the proper alert to a cellular device. The Care Go locator chime is activated by using voice or application input on the host device.
People
Financial backing is being obtained through the use of the Kickstarter community with a funding goal set at $40,000. As of January 31st, 2020, 1,071 people have pledged $603,376, exceeding Alphahōm’s goal. With two months until the projected delivery date and financial goals met, the future of Care Go is bright.
References
Alphahōm® Care Go. (n.d.). Retrieved January 31, 2020, from https://alphahom.com/#carego.
Care Go™: Personal Alarm Designed to Save Lives. (n.d.).
CoreDAR. (n.d.). GLAMOS. Retrieved January 30, 2020, from https://www.glamos-coredar.com/.
CoreDAR. (n.d.). GLAMOS: Bring Your Touchless Screens To Life.
