HeadLamp – A Tablet- and Smart-Glasses-based Home Electronic Aids for Daily Living System

This project researches and develops the HEADLAMP system, a system that empowers individuals with limited and/or no use of their hands to seamlessly interact and manipulate their physical world in ways that were previously unattainable. People who cannot use their hands need lower cost electronic aids for daily living (EADL) systems that offer greater functionality to help them to interact with their home environment. Project objectives for Phase I include: (1) determining end-user requirements, (2) developing a proof-of-concept prototype of the HEADLAMP system, and (3) performing a usability testing with end-users. Individuals with spinal cord injury, ALS, tetraplegia, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, or severe carpal tunnel syndrome who previously relied on the assistance of others may fully and independently interact with their environment promoting independence, enhancing self-esteem, and creating opportunities for self-direction in a respectful, non-invasive approach. Activities of daily living may be accomplished with less assistance while not compromising safety as well as reducing caregiver costs and fatigue.