Thanks for the link, I actually didn't see that thread
I've been pretty lazy about browsing the forum lately

Good job on the glasses - I may try make one

I know what you're saying with the computer, and since I'm a programmer myself that would make sense
However it results in one of the following:
1) Wires to your body (read: not good while sleeping - would like to avoid this)
2) Wireless technology (read: increased complexity + cost)

A friend of mine has already programmed a few chips so the idea was to rope him into helping me program it
All it needs to do is to record information, and to detect REM
Then it will be possible to plug the device into a computer and download that information for analysis
The last idea is optional, since it would cause more work for me :

That causes other problems:
1) Standalone power. Not so tough in a world of batteries
2) More complex circuitry + higher cost. But then again, you'd have had to detect REM with the pulse monitor anyway That's not going to be as simple as the glasses. This is more like a problem with using pulse monitors

To use the light sensors means:
1) You have a device on your face
2) You have lights in your eyes - not exactly 'unintrusive'
3) You have wires

Now, I'm not saying the idea of light is necessarily a bad idea ... because the pulse may in fact not be a very reliable detector for REM
The light sensing is likely to be easier and more reliable perhaps
And so far, it's the only feasible device in existence
But it means having that device in your face, and lights in your eyes. I'm not that keen on that personally

I'm just throwing points around, hoping for some new ideas