Adjusting Computer Input Device Settings Automatically to Meet User Needs

Abstract - The goal of this work is to enhance the productivity and comfort of computer access for people whose impairments affect their ability to use the computer keyboard and mouse. In Phase I, we will develop and evaluate a software tool for the automatic configuration of computer keyboards. The software will assess current user performance with their keyboard and recommend the appropriate Windows keyboard settings. We propose to achieve the following objectives: Objective #1: Develop a prototype software program. Task 1. Develop & validate methods of gathering natural data about a user’s keyboarding performance, during regular computer use rather than during a prescribed test activity. Task 2. Evaluate recommendations for keyboard settings made by feeding the natural data into decision algorithms. Task 3. Implement a basic prototype that makes recommendations and allows the user to activate them. Objective #2: Evaluate the software with computer users who have physical impairments. Task 4. Demonstrate effectiveness of the software’s recommendations. This project helps ensure that individuals with physical impairments have the effective computer access they need in order to pursue their educational and vocational goals, providing the flexibility to access any computer, any time, anywhere. When combined with our current work on mouse settings, the software will provide a complete system, ensuring that all individuals have an appropriate initial configuration and that the settings continue to adapt to each individual’s changing needs.