It is not hard to recognize how developments
of Human Computer Interfaces (HCIs) up until this point have benefited many
different types of people. A good way to view how HCI is becoming
more successful is that as technology itself becomes more advanced the way
that users can operate it becomes easier and produces more of the desired
results.
Ever since the Graphical User Interface (GUI) type of
HCI for computers was introduced as an alternative for the complicated Command
Line Interface (CLI), much more types of technology were able to be developed
as the general public did not require the vast amount of technical knowledge
that experts had. Over the years HCI, has even been modified to become even
more user-friendly and there are multiple reasons how they may continue to do
so.
Virtual Reality
The definition of virtual reality is 'a
computer-generated simulation of a three-dimensional image/environment that can
be interacted with in a seemingly real or physical way'. A virtual reality can
be achieved through specialised equipment such as a helmet equipped with a
screen. A combination of convincing visuals and audio are used through the
technology to lead the user to believe that they are experiencing a different
reality, including head-tracking technology so that the user can look around
the projected environment.
A Virtual Reality headset: https://pixabay.com/en/vr-virtual-reality-glasses-911031/
For a piece of technology to successfully create a virtual reality, the importance of HCI is critical. As well as helmets, equipment like the data gloves have been developed to create a more immersive way for users to interact in a virtual reality. 3D controllers are also another way for the user to interact with objects and the virtual environment, so both the gloves and controllers would need to be in sync with the display monitor. Although complex technology, the interfaces would have to be easy for a typical user and also decrease the likelihood of errors since this would take away the immersion of a virtual reality.
Only until lately has this type of technology been advancing in development with products, although attempts date back to as far as the late 1800s (see this article for more on the history; http://www.vrs.org.uk/virtual-reality/history.html). Recent commercial technology for virtual reality like the Oculus Rift and Galaxy Gear still share the limitation of not being able to physically walk around the virtual environment and relying on remote controllers for the user's interface. I think that as this technology becomes even more developed, virtual realities will become even more realistic in being able to allow the user to accurately interact in a seemingly natural and simple way.
Specialised Interfaces
While HCI has been improving for the use of the
general public, one of the more important reasons is also for the use of those
who have certain physical disabilities or impairments. Already in most
smartphones and computers they will have specialized interfaces such
as voice recognition software and text readers. Even head wands and eye
trackers are pieces of technology that are for providing a suitable HCI for
those with limited movements to operate other computer devices.
One of the more advanced types of specialized interfaces
currently being developed are brain-computer interfaces. The simple
explanation of how type of HCI is intended to be operated is by the user’s
brainwaves are to be transmitted through radio waves and then used to operate
the piece of technology. A way that experts are trying to develop and put
beneficial use to brain-computer interfaces is for patients with prosthetic
limbs. A more detailed explanation of these developments can be found in this
article; https://www.technologyreview.com/s/534206/a-brain-computer-interface-that-works-wirelessly/.
In a section of the article the writer points out that
although there has been successful trial for brain-computer interfaces allowing
patients to operate their prosthetic limbs, yet the help of laboratory
assistants with advanced knowledge and equipment is required. I believe that
future developments of this form of HCI will ultimately lead to patients with
prosthetic limbs to be able to operate them with a brain-computer interface
even in a home environment.
A video explaining more about Brain-Computer Interface: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7t84lGE5TXA
Summarising Future Developments
I
believe that through further development of HCI, more people without a large amount
of specific knowledge will be able to interact with more advanced technology. Up
until this point the majority of people are able to use a mobile phone since
the basic HCI has become familiar and easy, whereas specialised equipment such
as prosthetic limbs (mentioned earlier) would be far too complex for somebody
with no prior knowledge. HCI that allows the user to interact with complex technology
without frustration or confusion will allow more people, other than
professionals, to benefit from these pieces of technology. Seemingly basic
actions should be able to perform more advanced tasks successfully.
