Patient with cerebral palsy develops software to help himself

Because of his condition, Cheung is only able to type on a computer keyboard with only one figure. This specific problem was what inspired the student to come up with CP2Joy, a software that relies mostly on voice commands to control the computer, with minimises the need for physical movements from the user.

CP2Joy only requires a joystick and the built-in microphone from the computers.

When developing this innovation, the inventor created a “rolling character interface” that allows the user to quickly pick alphabets by applying a simple pre-recorded voice command (for example, pronouncing the sound "uh"). A user can also use voice commands to represent a mouse action such as "double click", "move the cursor" or "move the cursor to a designated mark on a computer screen". The design enables the user to "type" accurately and efficiently with minimal motion.

“there are a variety of systems made for disabled people, such as on-screen keyboards, gesture control systems and eye-tracking systems, but these systems are often too stringent for severely disabled patients. He added that some of the existing systems are expensive, placing such equipment out of the financial reach of those with disabilities. Tailor-made systems for individual patients can be even more costly and stringent. In contrast, CP2Joy uses easily accessible hardware”, explained Dr Byron Choi Koon-kau, Cheung’s professor.

The developer will start a trial on the software, with the help of HKBU Centre for Innovative Service-Learning.

Adapted from: http://bit.do/ePVKH

More info: http://www.cp2joy.com/