title: Disabled access to information technology--a portable adaptable, multipurpose device.
abstract: The technology exists to allow severely physically disabled people to have a far more independent lifestyle than many handicapped people enjoy today. To use an ever increasing range of sophisticated domestic equipment, without special modifications, an individually tailored control system and a universal accessing device are required. A portable multipurpose device allows multiply handicapped, non-speaking people a means of operating a variety of general-purpose or specialized pieces of electronic equipment at home and elsewhere, safely and independently. The device also provides a means of communication through the medium of computer-computer communication over telephone lines and will interface to a powered chair for independent mobility. Various features are provided which are not available from conventional environmental control systems. Through a specialized adjustable multipurpose switch system and a universal control device the handicapped person should be able to enjoy the independence afforded by the intelligent home of the future.
authors: Chailey Heritage Hospital, Lewes, Sussex, UK.
authors: C E
authors: CE
authors: Thornett
authors: M C
authors: MC
authors: Langner
authors: A W
authors: AW
authors: Brown
mesh_terms: D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D003143:Communication Devices for People with Disabilities; D004867:Equipment Design; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008838:Microcomputers; D011788:Quality of Life; D012656:Self-Help Devices; D012984:Software; D014584:User-Computer Interface