The categories are categorized based on the range of "uses".
Idea:
Make a new category for "Real World Interfacing"
This would include;
- hardware (other than standard PC peripherals)
- software
- projects (how to build, how to program and use)
Some Examples ;
1a) Use Brainwaves to Control Your PC.
http://www.pcworld.com/video/id,451-page,1-bid,0/video.html
1b) Other ways to Control Your PC (Human Computer Interface)
i) TUIO: A Protocol for Tangible User Interfaces.
http://tuio.lfsaw.de/
ii) The reactable is a collaborative electronic instrument with a tabletop tangible multi-touch interface.
http://reactable.iua.upf.edu/
2) Home Automation and Control Projects like;
HeyU
http://www.heyu.org/
Minerva
http://www.minervahome.net
3) Linux in Cars
http://www.electronicsweekly.com/Articles/2008/07/21/44152/automotive-linux-dri ves-innovation.htm
4) Linux in Phones
http://www.openmoko.com/
http://wiki.openmoko.org/wiki/Main_Page
Applications would include;
- scientific data collection systems
- prototyping
- industrial control
- manufacturing machinery control
- environmental data collection
- sensor interfacing
- home device controllers and networks
- automated systems
- robotics
- modular control systems
- microprocessor and microcontroller projects and programming.
- 3D object capture and re-production
Example of the Progression (PC audio interface);
The modern PC has sound cards - just plug it int he slot, load the software and go.
In the early days, one would have to design or buy a kit to connect a D/A converter to the parallel port.
Or pay big dollars for a specialized product.
Development of this functions has now brought it to everyday use.
There are many, devices that can be (home) made and hooked up to a PC, that are not yet "everyday use" products, but are very useful.
