Computers, as we all know need to be worked with our hands. Whether it is typing, opening the computer or opening and closing programmes. Reseach being developed by Copenhagen IT University will make it much more easier and affordable for people with disabilities to work on a computer.
The project is being aimed at not only people with physically impared people, but also professionals who want to work without using their hands.
A network called Cogain, works on improving quality of life for people with disabilities. Including twenty different organisations with over a hundred scientists are part of the network. Most of them gathered at the seminar Cogain Camp in Copenhagen.
‘’It should’nt cost more than a regular PC with a webcam. The programmes should be free and mobile,’’ says John Paulin Hansen, lector at the Institute for Innovation at Copenhagen IT University. ‘’It is possible for a few users to afford the solutions that are on offer today, but for handicapped people in poorer countries they are not an option,’’ he says.
There are already several types of eye-controlled solutions for sale. The one main problem is that they are too expensive. To lower the costs and make the technology more mobile is the challenge. The only way to success could be to make it an open source program.
‘’Developing technology under these circumstances is difficult. The size of the user’s face, pupils or glasses mustn’t intefere with the reading of the eye. Also, factorssuch as lighting in the room or possible spasms that the user may have must be taken into consideration.’’ Adds Mr. Hansen.
Even if Cogain works mostly with persons with disabilities, it seems that they are looking to other markets that could seem interesting for the future.
‘’We would like to get into arcade gaming, there is a lot of money there. The development depends on how the user systems will work in the near future. That will be the decisive factor whether it is a success or a failure.’’ Says John Paulin Hansen.
