What is a Gesture Recognition System?

Gestures are often read in order to obtain information. While reading gestures is not always an accurate indicator of a person’s state of mind, it can be helpful. Gestures are no longer considered to be merely a way of accentuating or highlighting certain parts of speech but are now considered a real part of our language. In exploring this field, researchers have also found that gestures can be used to control certain devices via a gesture recognition system.

Imagine having the ability to wave your hand, or use a gesture, to make your computer react. That is basically what a gesture recognition system does. The possibilities for such technology are unlimited. Such a system could be very useful in many different applications and could be especially promising for those with certain disabilities.

While hand or body movement can be efficient in some cases, there are also those who are unable to utilize this method. People who cannot move their hands or other body parts may be able to make a computer respond through gestures such as eye movement or having the computer read lips. These types of responses are achieved through the use of a camera. The camera generates information for the computer to interpret and the various gestures will then be used to stimulate certain applications.

A gesture recognition system can also be invaluable in the field of medicine. Doctors and surgeons may use such technology in place of touch screens, keyboards, or foot pedals to access data in real time. While the gestures used must be very specific, this could prove to be a huge advancement when it comes to sterility. A doctor will not contaminate a touch screen, keyboard, or foot pedal, but will instead be able to move his or her hand, without touching anything, to access necessary images.

In other areas, gesture recognition can improve communication and even entertainment. You may have seen the weather person on television make gestures, which instantly cause the weather map to change. Another good example of a gesture recognition system is an immersive video game. Immersive video games use gesture recognition system technology to allow the player to interact with the game without use of controllers or joysticks. This can make the experience much more realistic. Virtual bowling will feel more real when you actually swing your arm as if throwing a bowling ball rather than simply clicking a button.