SpiderSense suit delivers superhuman perception
« Back to Article
Using a collection of sensors placed all over the body, the SpiderSense suit detects objects in the environment and warns the wearer when anything gets too close (Photo Credit: Lance Long, EVL)
Using a collection of sensors placed all over the body, the SpiderSense suit detects objects in the environment and warns the wearer when anything gets too close (Photo Credit: Lance Long, EVL)
The test subjects had no trouble walking down hallways and detecting obstacles, but they did have some difficulty navigating through library bookshelves
The test subjects had no trouble walking down hallways and detecting obstacles, but they did have some difficulty navigating through library bookshelves
SpiderSense consists of thirteen sensor modules placed on various parts of the body - arms, legs, chest, back, forehead, etc. - and connected to a controller box
Each module contains an ultrasonic distance sensor that detects objects up to about 17 feet (approx. 5 meters) and a rotary servomotor connected to a pressure arm
Much like radar, the sensors send pulses and then listen for the reflections, while the controller box ensures there is no interference between the various sensors
The researchers also tested out the SpiderSense by blindfolding some volunteers and having them perform a few simple tasks like walking down a busy walkway
The researchers also tested out the SpiderSense by blindfolding some volunteers and having them perform a few simple tasks like walking down a busy walkway
Article Summary
In the Spider-Man comics and movies, the famous hero's "Spider Sense" warns him of incoming danger, which proves to be just as important a superpower as slinging webs and climbing walls. Now a group of researchers at the University of Illinois in Chicago may have found a way to replicate such superhuman perception that doesn't involve any radioactive spiders. Using a collection of sensors placed all over the body, the group has designed a "SpiderSense" suit that detects objects in the environment and warns the wearer when anything gets too close.
Other Images from this Gallery
Related Articles
-
The Activelink Power Loader suit to become a reality
5th October, 2009
-
MotivePro vibrating suit to help athletes perfect their technique
3rd May, 2012
-
MIT develops a suit that makes you feel like you're 75 years old
2nd January, 2012
-
HAL exoskeleton can boost strength 10 times
15th April, 2009
-
UltraCane uses ultrasonic echoes to offer spatial awareness to the vision-impaired
9th March, 2005
-
Security Phone
