The lipmouse: a labially controlled mouse cursor emulation device for people with special needs

Abstract

People with disabilities are part of the society. However, simple actions in their daily life, such as using a computer become a challenge. In many cases they need the assistance of another person. Assistive technologies help performing these tasks and help people with special needs to live more independently. In 2010, a collaborative project called "AsTeRICS" (Assistive Technology Rapid Integration and Construction Set) was initiated and partly funded by the European Commission, where 9 international partner organisations worked together to develop a free, open-source, flexible and affordable assistive technology tool. A mouse cursor emulator controlled through the lips was developed for the AsTeRICS platform. This device was called "Lipmouse" and was intended to provide a way of accessing a computer, tablet or notebook to a person with an impairment in her/his upper limbs. This thesis is a continuation and enhancement of the Lipmouse development. The improvements accomplished can be summarized in three blocks: The first part of this thesis consisted of the development of a portable version of the Lipmouse. The initial version worked via USB cable. For that purpose, the new version incorporates a Bluetooth module and a battery power supply system. The second part was focused on the design of a PCB where all electronic components of the Lipmouse were integrated. Finally, the Lipmouse source code was enhanced in two ways: The firmware of the Lipmouse was modified for supporting the new functionalities described above. On the other hand, a specific software plugin for the integration of the Lipmouse into the AsTeRICS framework has been developed.