While most 3D controllers force you to either load yourself up with markers or hold a controller in order to use them, some students at Northeastern University have managed to create an interface that is based off of the theory of electrostatics.

The interface is made up completely of copper pads that sense an electrical field above them, allowing users to have a pretty sizeable workspace. So far, they’ve been able to create applications that allow you to draw, move 3D models around, and even scratch a digital record.

If you’d like to see it in action, be sure to check out a video of it here.

Image Credit: Justin Schunick, Mark Hollenbeck, Luke Shaheen, Scott Gillette, Glenn Black