New Electronic Aids to Daily Living Device Called REACH

Remote Electronic Access & Control, or REACH, is a system that allows a user to more easily access dozens of products in one’s home.

Unlike most EADLs (electronic aids to daily living), REACH provides a large, but not bulky screen. This enables available commands to be visible and thus does away with the need to memorize an entire menu. A large variety of input methods like touch, voice, head control and switch scanning, can be used to control the REACH system. Switch scanning allows a person to control system using the slightest of movements in any body part.

REACH with Touch

The REACH system is especially useful for people with poor motor skills. For example, on-screen buttons can range from half-inch wide to eight inches wide, resulting in a solution for people with slight motion in their hands.

REACH with Voice

REACH allows persons with disabilities to control devices using their own voice. REACH passes on the command of the person to the device to be controlled. For instance, on saying “open window,” the window will open. REACH requires just about 10 minutes of voice training. Even in case of feebleness in voice at different stages, REACH (unlike most EADLs) will carry out the commands.

REACH with Head Control

REACH allows people with disabilities to control devices using even the slightest of head movements. On focusing on a button for less than a second, REACH will send a command to the device a user would like to control. This perfectly suits people with severe disabilities affecting not only body movement but also voice. If one can move his head less than one inch, REACH with Head Control will be able to help.

REACH with Switch Scanning

REACH allows people with disabilities to control devices using any type of assistive switch. If Touch, Voice or Head Control is not a match, REACH will allow full control with slight movement of any body part. REACH simply scans through the options available and when desired command is highlighted, the switch is pressed. This allows full control with foot, knee or elbow; even blinking an eye is enough.

Source: Break Boundaries