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A communication aid for the physically handicapped
Journal of Biomedical Engineering
|July 1, 1984
Summary
This study presents a novel communication aid for individuals with severe handicaps, utilizing an 8085 microcomputer and customizable message storage. The device offers enhanced independence and interaction for users, particularly those with athetoid conditions.
Area of Science:
- Assistive Technology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Rehabilitation Engineering
Background:
- Severely handicapped individuals often face significant communication challenges.
- Existing assistive communication devices may lack customization or user-friendly interfaces.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and describe a novel, wheelchair-mounted communication aid for the severely handicapped.
- To design a system adaptable to various input methods and powered by an electric wheelchair's battery.
Main Methods:
- The aid employs an 8085 microcomputer with 2 Kbyte EPROM for program and data storage.
- User input is managed via a two-switch system or joystick, controlling a cursor on an 8x8 letter array.
- Selected characters are displayed on a liquid crystal display, with storage for up to 64 user-defined messages (15 characters each) in 2 Kbyte CMOS memory.
Main Results:
- The communication aid successfully integrates microcomputer technology with user-friendly controls.
- It allows for the composition, storage, and recall of multiple short messages, retained even when powered off.
- The system was specifically designed for and tested with a 15-year-old athetoid child.
Conclusions:
- The developed communication aid offers a viable solution for enhancing communication for severely handicapped individuals.
- Its design emphasizes adaptability, user customization, and integration with electric wheelchairs.
- Further testing and potential enhancements can broaden its applicability in assistive technology.