The three companies are looking to create an advanced, sensor-enabled digital pen that can be used by OEMs to add value to their smartphone, tablet, notebook, PC, interactive whiteboard or other smart-display products.
The ‘Active ES (AES) Rear IMU Module’ combines Wacom’s digital pen technology together with a custom version of ST’s low-power 6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit sensor and Bluetooth Low Energy System-on-Chip (SoC), along with CEVA’s MotionEngine Air motion-control software to create a low-power, highly compact design suitable for integration into any digital pen form factor.
With support for motion-based pointing, gesture control, and 3D motion tracking, OEMs will be able to customise the module reference to design new applications and features. The sensor-enabled digital pen can also serve as a wireless presentation controller that can control the on-screen cursor with natural hand movements. It can also be programmed to replace complex series of menus and taps with a single gesture.
The software features CEVA’s patented orientation compensation and adaptive tremor-removal technology, ensuring a highly consistent and intuitive user experience across a wide range of applications.
Wacom is the first company looking to develop a product with these advanced capabilities in an AES Pen. The AES Rear IMU Module is targeted as a plug-and-play module accessory that will seamlessly work with Wacom’s AES digital pens with the applicable module connector. The module’s ability to control devices naturally, and at a distance, will allows individual experiences to become communal and collaborative.
Commenting Sayatake Komine, Wacom’s EVP Heading Technology Solution Business Unit, said, “We’re consistently looking to enhance the digital pen experience for our customers and our collaboration with ST and CEVA expands the functionality of the pen in a myriad of powerful ways. Gestures, pointing, and motion control provide a natural user interface that perfectly complement our digital pens and our AES Rear IMU Module allows sensor-based features and applications to be seamlessly added to our AES pen lineup.”
