The Peppermill: A Human-Powered User Interface Device

Nicolas Villar,

Steve Hodges,

Microsoft Research

Camebridge, UK

Comments:

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Franck’s Blog

Summary:

Introduction:

A user interface that sources its power from the effort required to operate it. This is a proof of concept device called the pepper mill which is used as an input device for multimedia browsing applications. The action involved in using the device as a viable alternative to batteries, with economic and ecological benefits. The transducer both senses the users intent and also generates the required power for the device to function. These characteristics are requirements of what are called human powered devices.

Background:

The Space Commander, developed by the Zenith corporation in 1955 as a TV remote control. This device was mechanical generating high frequency sounds which were received by a microphone and decoded. Simpler devices such as windup flash lights and radios have been around for a longtime. Body-worn systems to harvest energy to power cell phones etc are more recent additions. Another example which is mentioned is the MIT self powered button.

The Implementation:

The circuit diagram is presented showing the relatively simple implementation.

Standard components are used with a motor and reduction gear assembly providing the source of power.

The PepperMill Controller:

The controller is designed as a generic controller reminiscent of a culinary pepper mill hence the name. There is a total of four input DOF. the three buttons acting as modifiers to the rotary action. A micro controller, and radio transmitter are also incorporated in the package. A receiver is required on the other end which in this case was a USB serial device.

Evaluation:

An artificial scenario video browsing application was developed. Users could choose channels, and adjust volume. The rate of rotation determined the speed of selection of items on the screen.

Discussion:

A very interesting idea. The Zenith remote from the 50s is a brilliant use of available resources. Why they chose a human powered device when they could have just as easily had a radio version is additionally interesting. Small human powered devices have limitless applications, one is always needing to change batteries when one least need to. The smaller the devices the harder and more fragile this procedure can be. A very interesting paper.