Microsoft has recently applied for a couple of patents that seek exclusive rights to use electromyography (EMG) as an input modality to control computers, consumer gadgets, and, hopefully, assistive devices for disabled folks. The system uses EMG sensors on the forearm, as well as other parts of the body, to detect and transmit motor unit action potentials.
The video below explains the advantages and demonstrates the use of hands-free EMG over traditional buttons and controllers to manipulate device settings.
More at Microsoft Research: Muscle-Computer Interfaces…
Patent applications at USPTO: RECOGNIZING GESTURES FROM FOREARM EMG SIGNALS; WEARABLE ELECTROMYOGRAPHY-BASED CONTROLLERS FOR HUMAN-COMPUTER INTERFACE
(hat tip: TechFlash via Engadget)