Neonode (News - Alert) Inc. is a leading developer of unique touch-input technologies, notable for producing high performance touch and proximity solution at competitive prices. One of the company's most recent developments is a set of light-based touch controls designed for the steering wheel and dashboard of an automobile. This product has recently been approved by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for patent number #8,755,023 which ensures that this ground-breaking technology will remain fully under Neonode's control.
This marks Neonode's 17th patent issued within the United States, and the company's 42nd patent worldwide. It covers a touch-sensitive steering wheel technology developed by the company, which allows the user to perform hand gestures on their steering wheel to interact with other devices, including smartphones. This ultimately improves both the usability of these products while driving, as well as safety since the user can simply wave their hands to have a text message read out loud instead of having the urge to read it while driving.
The open-air gesture control is powered by zForce AIR solutions, which are flexible enough to work with several other types of devices. By projecting an infrared light field onto the desired control surface, the device can easily detect where hands are and how they are moving. The fact that the infrared sensor is a modular bar also means the sensor can be applied toward a variety of devices and settings.
“The automative sector response to Neonode's steering wheel has been overwhelming,” says the company's CEO Thomas Eriksson, who noted that the company has numerous products on the way that utilize the same technology. “We believe our AIR technology is so unique and disruptive, that it will deliver greater safety options for drivers, and make driving far more enjoyable.”