BBC reports that a new type of adapter for computer mice has been developed for patients suffering from Parkinson’s disease and other tremor disorders:
A special adaptor that helps people with hand tremors control a computer mouse more easily has been developed.
The device uses similar “steady cam” technology found in camcorders to filter out shaking hand movements.
People with hand tremors find it hard to use conventional mice for simple computer tasks because of the erratic movements of the cursor on the screen.
The Assistive Mouse Adapter (AMA) is the brainchild of IBM researcher Jim Levine who developed the prototype after seeing his uncle, who has Parkinson’s disease, struggle with mouse control.
Computer users plug the device into a PC, and it can be adjusted depending on how severe the tremor is.
It is also able to recognise multiple clicking on a mouse button caused by shaky digits.
IBM said it would partner up with a small UK-based electronics firm, Montrose Secam, to produce the devices…
The original press release…
More at Montrose Secam…