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Kinki Univ Develops World's First 'Breath Mouse'


Matsuda

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Kinki University has developed a method to move the mouse cursor on a computer display with breath entered through a tube held in the mouth, allowing people who have problems using their hands due to disability to use computers.
The "breath mouse" is the first device of its kind in the world, the university said Thursday. The university aims to make the device commercially available in two years by working with manufacturers of assistive equipment. People using the mouse move the cursor by adjusting the duration and strength of their breath. The mouse also responds to right-click and left-click commands.

Users can also enter characters using a keyboard on the screen, allowing them to communicate with others over the Internet, according to the university. The technology uses a high precision sensor. The price of the mouse could retail for around 50,000 yen (about $508), according to researchers.
The device was born out of the university's efforts to develop equipment and establish systems that assist patients with spinal damage and those suffering from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, a motor neuron disease.
"By taking advantage of social networking and other online services, people with disabilities can broaden their communication. It would also allow them to conduct a certain level of work," said Ichiro Kitayama, an associate professor of assistive engineering in charge of developing the device.
Kitayama eventually aims to develop a robot that can be controlled with a switch that responds to breath to assist in the everyday life of the disabled.



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So there's an University named 'Kinki' University? :tehe: Wonder what the practical classes there would be like :P Just saying :lol:

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