Using thought-reading computers to move limbs is undoubtedly the future for paralysis victims, as was noted earlier today. But until the cost and training time can be brought down, other options lie in wait. High schooler Apurv Mishra has invented a simple, inexpensive device that can do a lot for paralysis victims. He calls it the “Glabenator”, and it just won an international science fair:
The “Glabenator” is a communication system for the physically-challenged and quadriplegic. Apurv has thought of a way to help people suffering from paralysis to communicate through simple movements of just two muscles in their forehead. Through this, a patient who has lost the power to move most of his body, can scroll a set menu and select standard lines that will be voiced through a recorder and speaker. Glabenator derives its name from the word Glabella, which is a name for forehead muscles…
…Apurv says his invention would cost less than Rs 1500 ($ 35) and has wide-ranging possibilities as it can be used as an augmentative tool by pilots handling ordinary or combat aircrafts.
The latest on this 16-year old Indian boy is that he’s seeking a US patent for his device…
