University of Chicago researchers recently revealed a game-changing user interface that can receive and transmit digital information using small movements of the lips and tongue. This technology, known as LipIO, is a godsend for people with disabilities who may not have full use of their hands or eyes.
The device is made of a thin, flexible plastic sheet with conductive materials that is attached to the skin and has electrodes for lip contact. The top layer of the sheet receives input from the lower lip or tongue via capacitive touch, and the signals are transmitted via electrostimulation. The researchers created the LipIO system with readily available hobbyist components and made it open-source.
