Assistive technology

Phonation switch

Type of single-switch interface activated by speech or sound, used to operate assistive devices such as computers and environmental control units

Electromagnetic switch

Type of single-switch interface activated through energy such as radio waves or light used to operate assistive devices, types include:
• fiber-optic sensor
• infrared
• sound
• touch

Alternative and augmentative communication (AAC): Pointing device

Physical input device used to point at the desired location on a standard or graphic keyboard, beneficial for persons with decreased manual dexterity

Assistive technology

The term used to describe devices for persons with disabilities to:
• compensate for loss of function
• facilitate independence
• restore functional skills

Assistive technology: Input controls

Devices used to enter data and perform control functions on computers or other electronic devices, examples include:
• joy stick
• trackballs
• touch screens

Assistive technology transmission method: Radio frequency

A type of assistive technology transmission method in which desired household appliances are connected to EADL with radio frequency waves

Assistive technology transmission method: Infrared frequency

A type of assistive technology transmission method in which desired household appliances are connected to EADL with infrared light transmission

Alternative and augmentative communication (AAC)

Type of high or low technology device designed to assist or replace verbal/gestural communication, assist individuals with verbal deficits express basic needs, emotions, thoughts, and/or converse with others

Rehabilitative technology

The application of technology in the intervention of persons with disabilities with a focus on compensation, facilitation, or restoration of functional skills to support participation in occupation

Environmental control unit

Computerized or mechanized systems that enable a person with physical limitations to independently control or interact within their environment, may be activated by:
• voice
• eye gaze
• switch

Assistive technology transmission method: House wiring

A type of assistive technology transmission method in which desired household appliances are connected to EADL with hard wiring in the home

Electronic aids for daily living

Equipment that allows an individual with mobility impairments to operate devices in the environment

Examples include:
• remote control for radio
• wireless technology used to turn off lights
• switch to open doors

Pneumatic switch

Type of single-switch interface activated by airflow detection or pressure exchange, used to operate assistive devices such as environmental control units

Assistive technology transmission method: Ultrasound

A type of assistive technology transmission method in which desired household appliances are connected to EADL through sound frequencies

Low-tech communication board

Type of inexpensive augmentative communication device that does not require electronic or computer assistance

Consists of letters, selected words, or pictures to assist individuals with verbal deficits express basic needs and emotions

Proximity switch

Type of single-switch interface activated by close proximity to a detector, used to operate assistive devices and operate light fixtures

Membrane keyboard

Alternative keyboard for computer access made up of pressure pads requiring limited hand and arm strength and mobility

High-tech communication board

Type of electronic or computerized augmentative communication device that produces a synthesized voice

Allows a user with verbal deficits to express thoughts, needs, emotions, and to converse with others

Selection set

Choices that are available on an assistive technology device that a user may select from

Types include:
• direct: user selects a target and controls the device as a one-step process
• indirect: user must complete more than one step to control the device

Assistive technology transmission method

Refers to the signal communication between a piece of assistive technology (EADL) and an household appliance

Options include:
• radio frequency
• wireless technology
• infrared frequency
• house wiring
• ultrasound

Control interface

A device that allows a client to interact with assistive technology

Assistive technology: Control Enhancer

Equipment used to improve the control an individual has for using direct selection assistive technology
Types include:
• postural supports (e.g., laptray, lateral supports)
• hand/arm devices (e.g., orthotic, strap, pointer)
• head-mounted devices (e.g., stick, pointer, headrest)

Assistive technology: Output

Devices that communicate the outcome of data processing from an information processing system, examples include:
• braille
• voice

Mechanical switch

Type of single-switch interface activated by applying pressure to a button, pad or lever, used to operate assistive devices, types include:
• paddle
• plate
• button
• lever
• membrane

Joystick

Input device consisting of handle that pivots on a base allowing multi-directional control, often used to operate a power wheelchair, computer, remote-controlled toys
Types include:
• proportional (continuous)
• switched (discrete)