SYDNEY, May 2 (Xinhua) -- Researchers from the University of Sydney have designed a sensor bracelet that would allow people with conditions that impair their movement to interact with a variety of devices.
The ground-breaking device was announced to the public on Monday. The basis of its research was published in the Association for Computing Machinery and was made possible with funding from the Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Foundation in Australia.
Supervising engineer on the project, Dr. Anusha Withana said the device could be used to interact with a computer interface, operate a smart device, or play video games.
"We have 3D printed a sensor bracelet that can be easily customized for individual users. It accurately detects subtle finger movements through vibrations in the carpal tunnel - an area of the wrist that contains the tendons which control the hand," said Withana.
This would provide new accessibility to people living with conditions such as motor neurone disease and cerebral palsy.
According to data from Australia's Cerebral Palsy Alliance there are approximately 34,000 people living with cerebral palsy in Australia. The disease leads to life-long physical disability that impacts voluntary movement.
The researchers said the final device would be able to be printed using a low-cost commercial 3D printer in conjunction with an easy-to-use tool for customization to each individual.
Withana told Xinhua that the product's early rollout would happen in collaboration with various institutes in developing countries across the globe.
This would help people like Gopi Kitnasamy, who is the head of Rehabilitation Services at MJF Charitable Foundation, a Sri Lankan not-for-profit organization the researchers are partnered with.
Gopi Kitnasamy said the device has the potential to bring new dignity and joy to his son who has cerebral palsy.
"My 23-year-old son lives with cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair. He loves watching car and bike races and playing video games, with a keen interest in car racing and shooting games," he said.
"We hope the research progresses, not only to give people like my son access to video games, but also to improve rehabilitative services, and to make the impossible possible." ■