Development of an Integrated Pointing Device Driver for the Disabled
By Shih, Ching-Hsiang; Shih, Ching-Tien; Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology, Vol. 5, No. 5, pp. 351-358Publication Date: September 2010
Study proposes a novel method to integrate the functions of commercial pointing devices, utilizing software technology to develop an integrated pointing device driver (IPDD) of a computer in the Windows operating system. The IPDD enables people with disabilities, such as those with spinal cord injury, to operate computers. Because the method is software based, it does not require additional hardware or circuit preservations. It can combine unlimited devices and can support all standard interfaces of commercial input devices that are compatible with the computer, including PS/2, USB, and wireless interfaces. IPDD functions can be selected and combined according to the physical restrictions of the user. For example, the IPDD can adjust mouse function to allow a user with high level cervical SCI to use parts of the body such as the chin for cursor control. Future directions for the development of the IPDD are discussed.
Published by: Taylor & Francis, Limited (Website:http://taylorandfrancis.org)
International Society of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (Web Site: http://www.isprm.org )
