Technical Report BU-CS-2008-025

Title: Camera-based Interfaces and Assistive Software for People with
       Severe Motion Impairments

Author: Margrit Betke

Date: October 1, 2008


Abstract:

Intelligent assistive technology can greatly improve the daily lives
of people with severe paralysis, who have limited communication
abilities.  People with motion impairments often prefer camera-based
communication interfaces, because these are customizable, comfortable,
and do not require user-borne accessories that could draw attention to
their disability.  This technical report gives an overview of
assistive software that were specifically designed for camera-based
interfaces such as the Camera Mouse, which serves as a
mouse-replacement input system.  The applications include software for
text-entry, web browsing, image editing, animation, and music therapy.
Using this software, people with severe motion impairments can
communicate with friends and family and have a medium to explore their
creativity.