Moving with your body
Smartfish Technologies (www.getsmartfish.com) is the company behind ErgoMotion technology. They are creating designs that combine the science of ergonomics with the technology of motion to achieve more comfortable user interaction with computer peripherals such as mice and keyboards. The goal of ErgoMotion is to relieve discomfort and repetitive stress injuries (RSI) related to extended computer usage.
The ErgoMotion Mouse is the company’s first product. The ErgoMotion Mouse is a laser mouse featuring a patented swivel mechanism that promotes a fluid movement, allowing the mouse to intuitively adapt to the user’s hand position. ErgoMotion technology enables forward, backward and lateral pivots, creating a wave-like movement for the wrist every time the mouse is in use. The device is compatible with both Windows and Macintosh operating systems, features an ambidextrous design for both right and left-handed users and is priced at $50.
Smart physician dictation
3M Mobile Dictation Software from 3M Health Information Systems extends 3M’s dictation, transcription and speech recognition solutions. Available on the BlackBerry or Windows Mobile platforms, the software offers physicians the freedom of using a single device for phone, e-mail, and dictation, and provides anytime, anywhere access via Wi-Fi or 3G wireless service. 3M Mobile Dictation is enhanced with a full range of security features that fulfill HIPAA and hospital-specific guidelines for encryption and authentication.
3M Mobile Dictation, a module of the 3M Mobile Documentation System, provides always-on connectivity, eliminating the need to synchronize smartphones to a dictation system. The software’s advanced technology makes it possible for physicians to view patient lists, search patient IDs and display the most current patient information on the smartphone’s screen.
A soothing voice
The Kind Reminder (www.kindreminder.com) is a simple device that plays a message recorded in the familiar voice of a caregiver or family member. It is designed for those who suffer from memory loss due to age or illness. The Kind Reminder soothes anxiety by providing a source of reassurance to the user and reduces stress on caregivers.
The user just presses the large white “play” button to hear whatever caring message has been recorded. The messages are easily changed, helping to deal with the issue of answering questions repeatedly. The “record” button and microphone are recessed in the back panel of the device, which may be worn around the neck as a pendant to keep it from getting lost.
Adopt a little monster
Moshi Monsters (www.moshimonsters.com) is a world of adoptable monsters. The site combines virtual pets with social online gameplay and childhood education. The puzzles test a variety of skills including basic math, spatial awareness, logic, counting, anagrams and vocabulary. Moshi Monsters offers very limited social networking features. Children can communicate through the pin board or the Moshi Monster Forum. Pin board messages are filtered and also go through various rounds of moderation.
In the online game, players choose from one of six monsters to customize and nurture. Once players customize their pet, they then navigate through a make believe world by solving puzzles that test their skills. As players solve puzzles, their pet monsters earn Rox, the in-game currency that can be used to purchase accessories to customize their virtual homes. The basic version of Moshi Monsters is free. The site offers an expanded version of the game for $6 per month.