DIY head-controlled mouse: an affordable assistive technology solution for people with severe motor disabilities

People with severe motor disabilities require a variety of options to access computer and alternative communication technologies. Tracking the head movement of the user to control the mouse cursor can be done in several ways – using a webcam or using sensors. Body-worn devices with gyroscope sensor that can track the head movement are available commercially as Assistive Technology (AT). Although these devices give greater independence to the users, they are expensive and not affordable in a developing country like India. We describe the development of an open-source, DIY webpage that will guide non-engineers to build their own low-cost head-controlled mouse using tools and materials that are available locally in India. We discuss the benefits of empowering individuals in society to make their own AT using rapid prototyping tools with the support of knowledge communities online.