Wiimote as Scientific Sensor
Researchers from Delft University of Technology have assembled inexpensive alternatives to costly scientific sensors using the Nintendo Wiimote.
Gadgets
Make your own Square credit card reader?
I’ve been following “Square” it’s a MEGA VC’ed company that has a dongle that accepts credit cards on devices like iPhones. It seems there is some type of dispute over who invented or something… Square, a new company that makes a small device to let anyone make a credit card payment from their mobile phone, has […]
3D laser-etched acrylic zoetrope
From the Design Media Lab at Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, this “crystal zoetrope” technology involves spinning a cylinder of acrylic with internally etched 3D designs. The disk is surrounded by an array of LEDs that can flash in time with the rotation, or slightly asynchronously, to make the designs appear to move in space, and, additionally, to gradually rotate around the center of the cylinder in one direction or another. The direction and speed of rotation can be controlled by gestural movements on the tabletop. [via Dude Craft]
Squeezable mobile device interface
Synaptics’ Fuse prototype demonstrates novel input methods for mobile devices. Squeeze, grip, flex, or tilt to interact with the device using various Synaptics technologies.
Nook eBook reader rooted
It’s been out less than a week and the Barnes & Noble Nook eBook reader has already been rooted. Interestingly enough, it would seem that the eBook reader’s default custom Android system is installed on a MicroSD card.
Fully automatic electric crossbow
I normally try to steer clear of weapons-related posts, but this “full auto” crossbow from YouTuber TheDuckman666 was too cool to pass up. There’s lots more crossbow-y goodness on his personal site. [via The Automata / Automaton Blog]
Power outlet with USB charging ports
You can pre-order yours now at Fastmac. Supposedly they will ship “in early 2010.” Or you could just make your own. If you try it, remember Louie the Lightening Bug: “You gotta play it safe around electricity.” [via Slippery Brick]
