Hot Technology highlighted in the October 2007 issue of AT Bytes

1. Vehicle Modifications
Persons with higher-level injuries require the most technologically-advanced
features available to move them towards mobility and independence for
driving. Whether someone requires electronic steering devices, joystick
controls, quadriplegic driving systems, touch pad controls, or power head
rests, there are a variety of driving options available on the market. 
http://www.infinitec.org/live/driving/carmods.htm

2. Quick Glance 3
Quick Glance is an eye gaze system that responds to reflection of a person's
pupils. By looking around the screen, the software and hardware device
actually can follow an individual's eye movements. It is a solution for
individual in end-stage ALS or other limiting conditions. The latest version
has improved significantly making it a usable and intuitive method.  
http://www.eyetechds.com

3. Eco-14
The Eco-14 communication device is the latest in the Prentke Romich's
advanced speech generating devices. It provides the user with a multitude of
options for communicating effectively for young and old alike. The full
features run on a Windows XP environment allowing the user to operate
standard software along with communicating with other individuals using a
natural sounding voice. It is intuitive with both picture and word base
communication options. 
http://www.prentrom.com/eco

4. JustAMP Digital Voice Amplifier
JustAMP Digital Amplifier is a speech aid device designed to help whisper
patients who have lost their ability to project a loud voice to speak again.
Such voice loss may occur due to any of the following: Parkinson's, Lou
Gehrig's Disease, aka Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), or Multiple
Sclerosis (MS). The digital signal processing used in JustAMP allows
filtering unequaled in today's analog amplifiers. The Crystal Whisper
Technology uses state-of-the-art digital technology to virtually eliminate
air rush noise commonly found using analog amplifiers. 
http://www.iltsource.com/JustAMP_Digital_Voice_Amplifier_p/justamp.htm

5. Shadow Hand
An English company named "Shadow Robot" created a robotic imitation of a
human hand, the closest one ever to the real thing. The "Shadow Hand"
provides 24 different movements, which allow almost identical functionality
capabilities as the real flesh and blood hand. The Shadow Hand has integrated
sensing and position control and uses 40 built in Air Muscles - small devices
that provide a pulling force to the Hand. The Air Muscles behave in a similar
way to biological muscles - they can contract up to 40% of their original
length when actuated with a supply of compressed air and can provide a
powerful source of force. These artificial muscles are easily controllable,
enabling the robotic hand to handle even soft or fragile objects. In
addition, small sensors can be applied to the artificial fingertips of the
Hand, offering sensitivity sufficient to detect a small coin.  
http://www.shadowrobot.com/

Read the entire issue at:
http://www.courage.org/media/1023.doc

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