Hillcrest Labs announced today that LG Electronics is using Hillcrest Labs‘ patented Freespace in-air pointing and motion control technology for LG’s first 3D-ready, Internet-connected HDTVs that are currently shipping in the Korean market and will be available globally.
The “Magic Wand” remote, powered by Hillcrest Labs‘ Freespace technology will be included in certain models within LG’s new INFINIA line of LED LCD HDTVs. The INFINIA sets combine a slim design, a thin bezel, and an enhanced Internet connectivity package with a variety of entertainment options, including LG’s NetCast Entertainment Access.
LG’s “Magic” user interface brings together Internet-based applications, television menus, embedded games, and more using simple hand motions to control an on-screen cursor on the television. Consumers using the “Magic Wand” remote with Netcast will be able to access and navigate Internet-based applications specifically designed for the TV, without the need of a computer.
Freespace and the Magic Wand
Hillcrest Labs‘ Freespace technology is a complete solution for in-air pointing and motion control that can be added to a wide range of CE devices, including: remote controls, game controllers, mobile handsets, PC peripherals and more. The LG Magic Wand system utilizes Freespace to make a remote control with the most advanced in-air pointing and motion control capabilities on the market today. These include:
- High Resolution Pointer Accuracy: The Magic Wand is a highly precise pointing remote control which allows users to easily select icons and images, small and large, on a high-resolution screen.
- Orientation Compensation: Regardless of the orientation of the Magic Wand remote in space (e.g. pointing at the ground, turned sideways, etc.), Freespace technology generates intuitive cursor motions on the screen. MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) sensors combined with Hillcrest’s proprietary software enable consistent control of the device from any position -“ standing, sitting or reclining.
- Adaptive Tremor Removal: Hillcrest’s technology can distinguish between intentional and unintentional movement, including natural hand tremors. This means the Magic Wand’s cursor does not shake or jiggle on screen like that of a Wii-like game controller. Instead of employing simple filtering techniques, which would reduce the accuracy of the pointer, the Magic Wand dynamically measures and removes each individual user’s tremor while maintaining low latency of motion.
- No Line-of-Sight: Unlike conventional infrared devices and optical motion-sensing devices that require “line-of-sight” operation, the Magic Wand remote uses RF (radio frequency) technology, so users do not need to point directly at the computer or TV screen. This gives users greater freedom to move around at a range of up to 30 feet across the living room.
