When asked to design a communication device, I had all the options available to me- whether it be a tool to help communicate our health, state of emotional wellbeing or maybe something to ease communication with our beloved elders. The possibilities were endless and with such advance technology available, only the lack of imagination could have stopped one. But, with so many devices already created to help us connect, share ideas and exchange information, I felt that one particular group of people is being left out.
A person, who is suffering from hearing impairments can see, thus can communicate through either sign language or written/typed text. Someone who has blindness can hear, which allows them to communicate verbally. What about people, who can neither hear, nor see?
Deaf-blindness is one of the most isolating conditions that affect people. Therefore they can and usually do feel lonely, unimportant and left out. They struggle seeing themselves as a valuable part of the community and on top of all that can develop depression and other mental illnesses which highly affect their self-worth.
The current communication tools for the deaf-blind are quite limited. They are also heavy and most of them need additional equipment in order to enable connection with people without complete sensory loss.
A person, who is suffering from hearing impairments can see, thus can communicate through either sign language or written/typed text. Someone who has blindness can hear, which allows them to communicate verbally. What about people, who can neither hear, nor see?
Deaf-blindness is one of the most isolating conditions that affect people. Therefore they can and usually do feel lonely, unimportant and left out. They struggle seeing themselves as a valuable part of the community and on top of all that can develop depression and other mental illnesses which highly affect their self-worth.
The current communication tools for the deaf-blind are quite limited. They are also heavy and most of them need additional equipment in order to enable connection with people without complete sensory loss.
Inspired by iconic video games and controllers, and with a goal to make device easily portable, I have redesigned how communicator works. It is now lighter, more powerful, multifunctional and most importantly allows for easier communication with people without sensory loss: built in Braille translator cells rise creating text for the deaf-blind while also showing it on the LCD touch screen for those who do not know Braille. Text can be put in using both, Braille and touchscreen.
I have created PLUS in order to ease communication for the deaf-blind. PLUS is a smart device, which allows user to easily send and receive information, take notes or read books. It also works as a face-to-face communicator and included time management package lets users stay organized and helps them build independence.
Key features of PLUS:
The smart communicator can be accessed through the software available on mobile and computers. It is an easy way to upload and manage necessary information including desired reading materials and personal management packages, and with the help of friends or family members can be adjusted to suit the user as needed.