An internet access device for physically impaired users of Chanjei Morse code

Abstract

Due to the rapid growth of Internet resources and technology, Internet access has become an important method of accessing and retrieving information. However, for some physically handicapped persons whose hand coordination and dexterity are impaired by such ailments as muscle atrophy, cerebral palsy, or other severe handicaps, the use of a conventional keyboard or similar standard input devices is not an option. Therefore, we designed and implemented, in this study, an easy‐to‐operate input interface, which was specifically designed for physically disabled Mandarin users to facilitate access to the Internet for them. Morse code, with an easily operated 1/2/6‐switch input device, was selected as an adaptive communication tool. The experimental results show that three physically impaired users could easily gain access to the Internet after three weeks’ practice on this proposed system.

Key words:

• morse code
• mandarin chanjei
• internet
• assistive technology

Notes

Correspondence addressee