Attachments-free Point and Click Device for the Disabled

Information

  • Research Project
  • 6403035
  • ApplicationId
    6403035
  • Core Project Number
    R43HD041279
  • Full Project Number
    1R43HD041279-01
  • Serial Number
    41279
  • FOA Number
  • Sub Project Id
  • Project Start Date
    8/1/2001 - 22 years ago
  • Project End Date
    1/30/2003 - 21 years ago
  • Program Officer Name
    QUATRANO, LOUIS A
  • Budget Start Date
    8/1/2001 - 22 years ago
  • Budget End Date
    1/30/2003 - 21 years ago
  • Fiscal Year
    2001
  • Support Year
    1
  • Suffix
  • Award Notice Date
    8/1/2001 - 22 years ago

Attachments-free Point and Click Device for the Disabled

Computers are becoming an integral part of the workplace and home environments. Without use of the angers and hands, however, the standard computer workstation is impossible to use, and people with such disabilities are isolated from career, educational, and social opportunities. For such individuals, several devices are available to replace the keyboard and mouse. However, nearly all devices require equipment or markers to be placed on the head. For many disabled people, the computer can therefore not be used without assistance. Additionally, when the disabled person wishes to leave the computer, he or she is left wearing conspicuous objects until assistance can again be obtained. This project will develop an attachment-free point and click (PAC) device for the disabled. The device will be capable of tracking the head motion of the computer user and extracting pointing information. In addition to providing an important unaddressed function, the proposed device, using only low-cost components, promises to be available at a very low cost. In the Phase I project, Vortant Technologies will team with Easter Seals Arizona, which will provide input on requirements and function, as well as lead the test and evaluation activities. PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATION: Many disabled individuals use or wish to use computing technology. With current input devices, this is often difficult for those without effective use of the fingers or hands. The proposed R & D will result in a product of direct benefit to these individuals, who number more than 1 million individuals. The Point and Click device can be constructed of low-cost components, and can be built efficiently in low or high volumes. Thus, the chances for commercial release of a product are quite high.

IC Name
EUNICE KENNEDY SHRIVER NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF CHILD HEALTH &HUMAN DEVELOPMENT
  • Activity
    R43
  • Administering IC
    HD
  • Application Type
    1
  • Direct Cost Amount
  • Indirect Cost Amount
  • Total Cost
    75514
  • Sub Project Total Cost
  • ARRA Funded
  • CFDA Code
    865
  • Ed Inst. Type
  • Funding ICs
    NICHD:75514\
  • Funding Mechanism
  • Study Section
    ZRG1
  • Study Section Name
    Special Emphasis Panel
  • Organization Name
    VORTANT TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
  • Organization Department
  • Organization DUNS
  • Organization City
    WEAVERVILLE
  • Organization State
    NC
  • Organization Country
    UNITED STATES
  • Organization Zip Code
    28787
  • Organization District
    UNITED STATES