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Updated: Jul 10, 2026
07:53
µTongue: A Microfluidics-Based Functional Imaging Platform for the Tongue In Vivo
Published on: April 22, 2021
Tongue operated assistive technologies
1NC Bionics Lab, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at NCSU, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA. mghovan@ncsu.edu
Summary
Assistive technologies enhance life quality for disabled individuals. Tongue Drive technology offers a novel way for paralyzed users to control their environment using tongue movements.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
- Human-Computer Interaction
Background:
- Assistive technologies are crucial for enhancing independence and quality of life in individuals with severe disabilities.
- The tongue's unique dexterity and control offer potential as a natural interface for operating assistive devices.
- Existing tongue-operated assistive devices have limitations, necessitating further innovation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing tongue-operated assistive devices.
- To introduce a novel assistive device, Tongue Drive, for individuals with severe disabilities.
- To explore the potential of tongue control for environmental interaction.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current tongue-operated assistive technologies.
- Introduction and conceptual overview of the Tongue Drive system.
- Discussion of the functional capabilities and design principles of Tongue Drive.
Main Results:
- A range of tongue-operated assistive devices have been developed and reviewed.
- The Tongue Drive system presents a new approach to assistive technology utilizing tongue movement.
- The unique characteristics of the tongue are highlighted as a viable control mechanism.
Conclusions:
- Tongue-operated assistive devices can significantly improve self-care, education, and recreation for disabled individuals.
- The Tongue Drive system represents a promising advancement in assistive technology for environmental control.
- Further development and research into tongue-based interfaces are warranted to maximize user independence.
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