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<title>Bridging the Communication Gap: How Terp 360 is Revolutionizing Sign Language Translation in Africa</title>
<link>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/terp-360-sign-language/</link>
<comments>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/terp-360-sign-language/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Venkat]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Sun, 26 Oct 2025 17:17:34 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Hearing]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/?p=18857</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>Kenyan innovator Elly Savatia wins major award for Terp 360, an AI app translating speech into sign language via 3D avatars, revolutionizing accessibility across Africa.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/terp-360-sign-language/">Bridging the Communication Gap: How Terp 360 is Revolutionizing Sign Language Translation in Africa</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p class="whitespace-normal break-words">Kenyan entrepreneur Elly Savatia has won the prestigious Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation and £50,000 for creating Terp 360, a revolutionary web-based application that translates speech and text into sign language using AI-powered 3D avatars. Described as “Google Translate for sign language,” the app addresses a critical challenge faced by deaf communities across Africa: the severe shortage of human sign language interpreters. In Kenya, deaf individuals often struggle to access essential services like healthcare, education, and employment because most service providers don’t know sign language, and human interpreters are both expensive and scarce. Savatia’s inspiration came from witnessing this disparity firsthand during a robotics class in Northern Kenya, where 300 deaf students shared just one interpreter. What began as a simple Unity-based app has evolved into a sophisticated platform using motion capture technology, developed in collaboration with deaf and hard-of-hearing Kenyans who recorded over 2,300 signs to ensure the avatars move with lifelike fluidity rather than robotic stiffness.</p>
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="alignleft size-full is-resized"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="960" height="540" data-attachment-id="18858" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/terp-360-sign-language/ad9d5eeb387e4500adb7f6de13e3377a-2/" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/ad9d5eeb387e4500adb7f6de13e3377a-2.webp" data-orig-size="960,540" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="ad9d5eeb387e4500adb7f6de13e3377a-2" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/ad9d5eeb387e4500adb7f6de13e3377a-2-300x169.webp" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/ad9d5eeb387e4500adb7f6de13e3377a-2.webp" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/ad9d5eeb387e4500adb7f6de13e3377a-2.webp" alt="Elly Savatia wearing motion capture gloves with orange sensors demonstrates sign language while facing a large monitor displaying a 3D avatar mimicking the hand movements in a virtual environment with a turquoise grid background" class="wp-image-18858" style="width:448px;height:auto" srcset="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/ad9d5eeb387e4500adb7f6de13e3377a-2.webp 960w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/ad9d5eeb387e4500adb7f6de13e3377a-2-300x169.webp 300w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/ad9d5eeb387e4500adb7f6de13e3377a-2-768x432.webp 768w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/ad9d5eeb387e4500adb7f6de13e3377a-2-310x174.webp 310w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></figure></div>
<p class="whitespace-normal break-words">The innovation stands out for its focus on African sign languages and cultural contexts—an area largely overlooked by existing global solutions. Currently supporting English and Swahili translations into Kenyan Sign Language, Terp 360 has already interacted with over 2,000 members of the deaf community during its testing phase. Savatia and his team at Signvrse are now preparing to expand into the B2B market, targeting education, corporate, and healthcare sectors where the need is most acute. With a motion capture studio in Nairobi capable of recording 1,000 new words daily, the team is partnering with local NGOs and news stations to access visual sign language datasets. Plans are underway to support Rwandan, Ugandan, South African, British, and American sign languages by mid-2027, with visions of incorporating broader vocabulary, dialects, and colloquialisms to create truly inclusive communication tools across multiple sectors.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe title="Signvrse Terp 360 Demo" width="650" height="366" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZpCK52b0KD0?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading whitespace-normal break-words" id="h-the-critical-role-of-assistive-technology-in-the-global-south"><strong>The Critical Role of Assistive Technology in the Global South</strong></h2>
<p class="whitespace-normal break-words">Applications like Terp 360 are particularly transformative in the global south, where access to assistive technology can be as low as 3% of the actual need in low- and middle-income countries. According to a joint WHO-UNICEF report, <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/global-report-assistive-technology/">more than 2.5 billion people need assistive products</a>, yet nearly one billion are denied access, particularly in developing nations. The challenges are especially acute for deaf communities: the World Health Organization and World Federation of the Deaf estimate that between 70 million and 200 million deaf people worldwide lack access to education, with at least 90% of <a href="https://deafunity.org/article_interview/chris-kubwimana-burundi-and-aurora-deaf-aid-africa/">deaf people in developing countries never attending school</a>. Many deaf people in Africa face overwhelming barriers to education, employment, healthcare, political participation, and social and family life.</p>
<p><a href="https://bmchealthservres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12913-018-3605-9">Research shows that in Southern African countries like Botswana and Swaziland, 44% and 67% respectively of people who need assistive technology do not receive it</a>. The majority of the global population of people with disabilities live in the global south, where their <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/publication/assistive-technology-research-and-disability-studies-in-the-global-south-the-need-for-synergy/">lived realities differ drastically</a> from those in developed nations, and <a href="https://openoregon.pressbooks.pub/ghanaiandeaf/chapter/chapter-3-deaf-education-and-signed-language-situation-in-ghana-and-nigeria-six-decades-after-andrew-foster/">deaf education in many African nations</a> has not reached the level that allows deaf and hearing persons to compete for the same job opportunities. By developing technology specifically designed for African sign languages rather than simply adapting Western solutions, innovations like Terp 360 demonstrate how locally-driven innovation can more effectively serve underserved communities while respecting linguistic and cultural diversity. As governments across Africa implement disability inclusion policies—like Kenya’s requirement that 5% of jobs be reserved for people with disabilities—tools like Terp 360 provide the practical infrastructure needed to make these policies meaningful, enabling companies to integrate deaf employees effectively and at scale while creating economic opportunities and fostering greater social equity across the continent.</p>
<p><em>Source: </em><a href="https://sg.news.yahoo.com/app-translates-speech-sign-language-111731164.html"><em>Yahoo News</em></a>, <em><a href="https://africaprize.raeng.org.uk/2025-cohort/elly-savatia/">Royal Academy of Engineering</a> </em></p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>AI Disclosure: This blog post was created with the assistance of Claude, an AI assistant by Anthropic. The content was synthesized from provided source materials about Terp 360, with AI conducting research to find and cite credible sources supporting claims about assistive technology access in the global south. Is this a good use of AI? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/terp-360-sign-language/">Bridging the Communication Gap: How Terp 360 is Revolutionizing Sign Language Translation in Africa</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18857</post-id> </item>
<item>
<title>AI-Powered Brain Computer Interface Co-pilot Offers New Autonomy for People with Paralysis</title>
<link>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/ai-powered-brain-computer-interface-co-pilot-offers-new-autonomy-for-people-with-paralysis/</link>
<comments>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/ai-powered-brain-computer-interface-co-pilot-offers-new-autonomy-for-people-with-paralysis/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Venkat]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Mon, 13 Oct 2025 04:20:21 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Artificial Intelligence]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brain Computer Interface]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mobility]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Paralysis]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/?p=18734</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>Scientists at the University of California – Los Angeles (UCLA) have developed an AI-powered “co-pilot” to dramatically improve assistive devices for people with paralysis. The research, conducted in the Neural Engineering and Computation Lab led by Professor Jonathan Kao with student developer Sangjoon Lee, tackles a major issue with non-invasive, wearable brain-computer interfaces (BCIs): “noisy” signals. This means the specific brain command (the “signal”) is very faint and gets drowned out by all the other electrical brain activity (the “noise”), much like trying to hear a whisper in a loud, crowded room. This low signal-to-noise ratio has made it difficult for users to control devices with precision. The team’s breakthrough solution is a concept called shared autonomy. Instead of only trying to decipher the user’s “noisy” brain signals, the AI co-pilot also acts as an intelligent partner by analyzing the environment, using data like a video feed of the robotic arm. By combining the user’s likely intent with this real-world context, the system can make a highly accurate prediction of the desired action. This allows the AI to help complete the movement, effectively filtering through the background noise that limited older systems. The results of this new approach are remarkable. In lab tests, participants using the [...]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/ai-powered-brain-computer-interface-co-pilot-offers-new-autonomy-for-people-with-paralysis/">AI-Powered Brain Computer Interface Co-pilot Offers New Autonomy for People with Paralysis</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>Scientists at the University of California – Los Angeles (UCLA) have developed an AI-powered “co-pilot” to dramatically improve assistive devices for people with paralysis. The research, conducted in the Neural Engineering and Computation Lab led by Professor Jonathan Kao with student developer Sangjoon Lee, tackles a major issue with non-invasive, wearable brain-computer interfaces (BCIs): “noisy” signals. This means the specific brain command (the “signal”) is very faint and gets drowned out by all the other electrical brain activity (the “noise”), much like trying to hear a whisper in a loud, crowded room. This low signal-to-noise ratio has made it difficult for users to control devices with precision.</p>
<p>The team’s breakthrough solution is a concept called <strong>shared autonomy</strong>. Instead of only trying to decipher the user’s “noisy” brain signals, the AI co-pilot also acts as an intelligent partner by analyzing the environment, using data like a video feed of the robotic arm. By combining the user’s likely intent with this real-world context, the system can make a highly accurate prediction of the desired action. This allows the AI to help complete the movement, effectively filtering through the background noise that limited older systems.</p>
<p></p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="300" data-attachment-id="18735" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/ai-powered-brain-computer-interface-co-pilot-offers-new-autonomy-for-people-with-paralysis/mceu_45418093211759760938253/" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/mceu_45418093211759760938253.png" data-orig-size="1906,558" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="mceu_45418093211759760938253" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/mceu_45418093211759760938253-300x88.png" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/mceu_45418093211759760938253-1024x300.png" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/mceu_45418093211759760938253-1024x300.png" alt="A side-by-side diagram contrasting two approaches to brain-computer interface (BCI) control. On the left, titled "Prior studies," a person in a chair with electrodes on their head sends neural signals to a "BMI decoder," which then directly controls a robotic arm. The person receives "visual feedback" from a monitor displaying the arm's movement. On the right, titled "This study, with an AI copilot + BMI (AI-BMI)," the setup is more complex. Neural signals still go to a "BMI decoder," providing "BMI control." However, this signal now feeds into an "AI-BMI control" pathway, which also receives input from an "AI Agent." The AI Agent is shown as an "AI policy" mechanism that takes input from "Computer Vision" (represented by a camera pointing at the robotic arm and task) as well as "Task priors and information" and "Historical movements." The combined AI-BMI control then directs the robotic arm, and the person again receives "visual feedback" from the monitor." class="wp-image-18735" srcset="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/mceu_45418093211759760938253-1024x300.png 1024w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/mceu_45418093211759760938253-300x88.png 300w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/mceu_45418093211759760938253-768x225.png 768w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/mceu_45418093211759760938253-1536x450.png 1536w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/mceu_45418093211759760938253.png 1906w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
<p>The results of this new approach are remarkable. In lab tests, participants using the AI co-pilot to control a computer cursor and a robotic arm saw their performance improve by nearly <strong>fourfold</strong>. This significant leap forward has the potential to restore a new level of independence for individuals with paralysis. By making wearable BCI technology far more reliable and intuitive, it could empower users to perform complex daily tasks on their own, reducing their reliance on caregivers.</p>
<p><em><a href="https://medicine.illinois.edu/news/ai-powered-co-pilot-offers-new-autonomy-for-people-with-paralysis">Source: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign</a></em></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/ai-powered-brain-computer-interface-co-pilot-offers-new-autonomy-for-people-with-paralysis/">AI-Powered Brain Computer Interface Co-pilot Offers New Autonomy for People with Paralysis</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
<wfw:commentRss>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/ai-powered-brain-computer-interface-co-pilot-offers-new-autonomy-for-people-with-paralysis/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18734</post-id> </item>
<item>
<title>Xbox and Special Olympics are Championing Inclusive Gaming with Game Camp</title>
<link>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/xbox-special-olympics-inclusive-gaming/</link>
<comments>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/xbox-special-olympics-inclusive-gaming/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Venkat]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 08 Oct 2025 18:19:33 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Microsoft]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Video Games]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/?p=18694</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>Discover the new partnership between Xbox and Special Olympics. Get an inside look at the recent Xbox Game Camp for athletes and find out how to watch the 2025 Gaming for Inclusion Celebrity Showcase.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/xbox-special-olympics-inclusive-gaming/">Xbox and Special Olympics are Championing Inclusive Gaming with Game Camp</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-summary">Summary:</h3>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li> Learn about the long-standing partnership between Xbox and Special Olympics and their shared mission to make gaming accessible for everyone.</li>
<li>Get an inside look at the recent Xbox Game Camp, a unique event that gave athletes an immersive experience in the gaming industry.</li>
<li>Find out how and when to watch the upcoming 2025 Gaming for Inclusion Celebrity Showcase.</li>
</ul>
<p>In the world of gaming, the power of play is a universal language, and for over a decade, <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/?s=xbox">Xbox</a> and <a href="https://www.specialolympics.org">Special Olympics</a> have been championing this message together. Their enduring partnership is built on a shared belief that gaming can and should be for everyone, fostering a community where every individual, regardless of ability, has a place to compete, connect, and shine. This collaboration has created incredible opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities, most notably through the annual “Gaming for Inclusion” esports tournament, which showcases their exceptional skills and the unifying spirit of competition to a global audience.</p>
<p>This summer, the partnership reached a new level of engagement with the creation of a special Xbox Game Camp. Nine Special Olympics athletes were invited to the Redmond campus for an immersive two-day experience, offering them a behind-the-scenes look into the gaming industry. The athletes delved into accessibility innovations at the Inclusive Tech Lab, toured the studios of iconic games like <em>Minecraft</em> and <em>Halo</em>, and even participated in hands-on coding workshops using Microsoft MakeCode. Throughout the camp, they met with top Xbox executives, including Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer, gaining invaluable skills and inspiration for potential careers in technology and game development.</p>
<p>The celebration of these talented athletes continues next week with the broadcast of the Gaming for Inclusion Celebrity Showcase 2025. On October 14th at 10 am Pacific, viewers can tune into the <a href="https://www.twitch.tv/xbox">Xbox Twitch channel</a> to watch highlights from the recent <em>Rocket League</em> tournament and see Special Olympics athletes team up with celebrity supporters and gaming creators. This event not only highlights incredible gameplay but also shares the inspiring stories and powerful sense of community that defines the partnership. This stream is also available on the <a href="https://www.twitch.tv/XboxASL/">XboxASL Twitch channel</a>.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="682" data-attachment-id="18696" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/xbox-special-olympics-inclusive-gaming/xgcso-inclusive-tech-lab-image/" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/xgcso-inclusive-tech-lab-image.jpeg" data-orig-size="1280,853" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"2.8","credit":"","camera":"X-H2S","caption":"","created_timestamp":"1752568639","copyright":"","focal_length":"16","iso":"1250","shutter_speed":"0.00625","title":"","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="xgcso—inclusive-tech-lab-image" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/xgcso-inclusive-tech-lab-image-300x200.jpeg" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/xgcso-inclusive-tech-lab-image-1024x682.jpeg" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/xgcso-inclusive-tech-lab-image-1024x682.jpeg" alt="A group of Special Olympics athletes are seated in the Xbox Inclusive Tech Lab, listening attentively to a presentation. A woman stands on the right, demonstrating accessible technology, with an Xbox Adaptive Controller visible on a nearby stand." class="wp-image-18696" srcset="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/xgcso-inclusive-tech-lab-image-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/xgcso-inclusive-tech-lab-image-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/xgcso-inclusive-tech-lab-image-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/xgcso-inclusive-tech-lab-image.jpeg 1280w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Source: Microsoft</em></figcaption></figure>
<p>Ultimately, the collaboration between Xbox and Special Olympics is a powerful testament to what can be achieved when inclusion is at the core of innovation. By creating platforms for competition and pathways for career exploration, they are not just hosting events; they are building a more accessible and welcoming world where everyone has the opportunity to play, compete, and belong. The journey is ongoing, and it’s a powerful reminder that in the virtual arena, as in life, the most important victory is the one that includes everyone.</p>
<p>For those inspired by this story, the original articles offer even greater detail. The first piece provides a wonderful overview of the entire Xbox and Special Olympics partnership and gives you all the details for tuning into the Celebrity Showcase next week. For a truly heartfelt and inspiring day-by-day account of the athletes’ journey, the second article offers a deep dive into the Xbox Game Camp, sharing specific moments from their immersive visits to the studios behind <i>Minecraft</i> and <i>Halo</i>. We encourage you to read them to fully appreciate the impact of this incredible initiative.</p>
<p><em><a href="https://news.xbox.com/en-us/2025/10/06/xbox-special-olympics-gaming-disability-inclusion-2025/">Source (1): Xbox Wire</a></em>, <em><a href="https://developer.microsoft.com/en-us/games/articles/2025/10/xbox-special-olympics-gaming-disability-inclusion-2025/">Source (2): Microsoft Game Dev</a></em></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/xbox-special-olympics-inclusive-gaming/">Xbox and Special Olympics are Championing Inclusive Gaming with Game Camp</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.</p>
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<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18694</post-id> </item>
<item>
<title>MadMuscles Launches Free Adaptive Training Program Wounded Veterans, Individuals with Amputations, and People with Limited Mobility</title>
<link>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/madmuscles-launches-free-adaptive-training-program-wounded-veterans-individuals-with-amputations-and-people-with-limited-mobility/</link>
<comments>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/madmuscles-launches-free-adaptive-training-program-wounded-veterans-individuals-with-amputations-and-people-with-limited-mobility/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Venkat]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 23 Sep 2025 15:44:34 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Amputee]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Fitness]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mobility]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">http://assistivetechnologyblog.com/?p=18569</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>The MadMuscles fitness app has launched a free, worldwide adaptive training program for wounded veterans and individuals with physical disabilities. Developed in collaboration with the Invictus Games community in Ukraine, the app provides personalized, equipment-free workouts tailored to six specific injury categories, alongside motivational content from adaptive athletes to help users rebuild strength and confidence.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/madmuscles-launches-free-adaptive-training-program-wounded-veterans-individuals-with-amputations-and-people-with-limited-mobility/">MadMuscles Launches Free Adaptive Training Program Wounded Veterans, Individuals with Amputations, and People with Limited Mobility</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>The <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/category/fitness">fitness</a> app MadMuscles has launched a new, completely free <a href="https://madmuscles.com/adaptive-workout-program">adaptive training program</a> designed for wounded veterans, individuals with amputations, and people with limited mobility. Developed in partnership with the Invictus Games community in Ukraine, this initiative aims to help users who have completed initial medical rehabilitation return to an active and healthy lifestyle. The program was created with direct input from professional coaches and veteran athletes who understand the physical and psychological challenges of recovery, ensuring the workouts are safe, effective, and tailored to real-world needs.</p>
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" data-attachment-id="18571" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/madmuscles-launches-free-adaptive-training-program-wounded-veterans-individuals-with-amputations-and-people-with-limited-mobility/68d155b05b655e02d9991f51_real_fd6a32ab-5637-476a-8d2b-99fa529af14f/" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/68d155b05b655e02d9991f51_real_fd6a32ab-5637-476a-8d2b-99fa529af14f.jpeg" data-orig-size="1599,1066" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="68d155b05b655e02d9991f51_real_fd6a32ab-5637-476a-8d2b-99fa529af14f" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/68d155b05b655e02d9991f51_real_fd6a32ab-5637-476a-8d2b-99fa529af14f-300x200.jpeg" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/68d155b05b655e02d9991f51_real_fd6a32ab-5637-476a-8d2b-99fa529af14f-1024x683.jpeg" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/68d155b05b655e02d9991f51_real_fd6a32ab-5637-476a-8d2b-99fa529af14f-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-18571" style="width:447px;height:auto" srcset="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/68d155b05b655e02d9991f51_real_fd6a32ab-5637-476a-8d2b-99fa529af14f-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/68d155b05b655e02d9991f51_real_fd6a32ab-5637-476a-8d2b-99fa529af14f-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/68d155b05b655e02d9991f51_real_fd6a32ab-5637-476a-8d2b-99fa529af14f-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/68d155b05b655e02d9991f51_real_fd6a32ab-5637-476a-8d2b-99fa529af14f-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/68d155b05b655e02d9991f51_real_fd6a32ab-5637-476a-8d2b-99fa529af14f.jpeg 1599w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></div>
<p>The program is highly personalized and accessible. When users download the app, they complete a short quiz about their specific condition, which then places them into one of six distinct categories, such as “double leg amputation/spinal cord injury” or “one arm functional impairment.” Based on this, the app creates a customized workout plan that requires no special gym equipment, allowing users to exercise at home. A key feature of the app is its focus on motivation; it includes a digital library of inspirational video stories from veterans and adaptive sports influencers who have successfully navigated their own recovery journeys.</p>
<p>The primary goal of MadMuscles is to make fitness inclusive and break down barriers for those with physical challenges. The program is available <strong>worldwide</strong> for both iOS and Android users. To ensure global accessibility, the app and its adaptive training content are available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Brazilian Portuguese, and Ukrainian. By offering this specialized program for free, MadMuscles aims to provide not just physical training but also a supportive community and the motivation needed to regain strength, confidence, and well-being.</p>
<div class="wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ad2f72ca wp-block-group-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="679" data-attachment-id="18572" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/madmuscles-launches-free-adaptive-training-program-wounded-veterans-individuals-with-amputations-and-people-with-limited-mobility/unnamed-2-2/" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/unnamed-2.jpg" data-orig-size="1024,679" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="unnamed-2" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/unnamed-2-300x199.jpg" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/unnamed-2.jpg" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/unnamed-2.jpg" alt="A screenshot of a "PROGRAM TYPES" selection screen from the MadMuscles app, displaying six categories for adaptive training. Each category shows a simplified human figure highlighting the affected limbs and includes a brief description of the impairment. The categories are: "Lower and upper limbs," "Both arms," "Both legs," "One arm," "One leg," and "Limbs functional." A prominent "START TRAINING" button is at the bottom." class="wp-image-18572" srcset="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/unnamed-2.jpg 1024w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/unnamed-2-300x199.jpg 300w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/unnamed-2-768x509.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
</div>
<p>Head to the source link and MadMuscles’ <a href="https://madmuscles.com/adaptive-workout-program">Adaptive Program webpage</a> to read more about this program and download the app.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.eznewswire.com/newsroom/madmuscles-free-adaptive-training-program-veterans-disabilities"><em>Source: </em>EZNewswire</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/madmuscles-launches-free-adaptive-training-program-wounded-veterans-individuals-with-amputations-and-people-with-limited-mobility/">MadMuscles Launches Free Adaptive Training Program Wounded Veterans, Individuals with Amputations, and People with Limited Mobility</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.</p>
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<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18569</post-id> </item>
<item>
<title>A New Dawn for Prosthetics: How Data is Transforming Socket Design</title>
<link>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/data-enabled-prosthetic-socket-design/</link>
<comments>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/data-enabled-prosthetic-socket-design/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Venkat]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 16 Sep 2025 12:43:55 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Prosthetics]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">http://assistivetechnologyblog.com/?p=18510</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>Discover how a new data-driven technology is revolutionizing prosthetic leg design. A recent UK study shows that this AI-powered approach provides a "starting design" for sockets that are just as comfortable as traditional methods, but with more consistent and faster results, promising to improve patient care and reduce healthcare backlogs.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/data-enabled-prosthetic-socket-design/">A New Dawn for Prosthetics: How Data is Transforming Socket Design</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>For individuals with limb loss, the connection between their body and their <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/category/prosthetics">prosthetic</a>, known as the socket, is crucial for comfort and mobility. Traditionally, creating this socket is a hands-on, time-consuming process involving plaster casts and multiple appointments to get the fit just right. However, a groundbreaking collaboration between <a href="https://radiidevices.com">Radii Devices</a> and the <a href="https://www.southampton.ac.uk/news/2025/08/datadriven-designs-to-improve-prosthetic-legs.page">University of Southampton</a> is set to change this, offering a faster, more consistent, and patient-friendly approach through a new data-driven software. This technology analyzes hundreds of previous successful prosthetic designs, identifying trends between a patient’s residual limb shape and an effective socket design. By scanning a new patient’s limb, the software can instantly generate a personalized “starting design,” providing prosthetists with a solid and reliable base to work from.</p>
<p>A recent clinical trial, with results published in <a href="https://rehab.jmir.org/2025/1/e69962">JMIR Rehabilitation and Assistive Technology</a>, put this new method to the test. The study involved 17 participants with 19 below-the-knee amputations across three UK prosthetic rehabilitation centers. Each participant tried two sockets: one designed by their expert prosthetist using conventional methods and another generated by the new evidence-based software. The results were compelling. On average, there was <b>no statistical difference in comfort scores</b> between the two designs. In fact, the data-driven sockets showed less variation in comfort, indicating more consistent results. The qualitative feedback from participants was equally positive; many found it difficult to tell the difference in comfort, with some describing both sockets as feeling “natural.” Several participants even preferred the fit of the new data-driven socket and chose to have it made into their permanent prosthetic.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" data-attachment-id="18514" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/pexels-kampus-6111599-hn_jkq0z_bzqb8-2/" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pexels-kampus-6111599.Hn_jkq0Z_Bzqb8-1.webp" data-orig-size="1920,1280" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="pexels-kampus-6111599.Hn_jkq0Z_Bzqb8" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="<p>Image source: Radii Devices)</p>
" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pexels-kampus-6111599.Hn_jkq0Z_Bzqb8-1-300x200.webp" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pexels-kampus-6111599.Hn_jkq0Z_Bzqb8-1-1024x683.webp" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pexels-kampus-6111599.Hn_jkq0Z_Bzqb8-1-1024x683.webp" alt="A man with a prosthetic right leg sits on a wooden stool in a clinic while a female therapist crouches down to examine and adjust his prosthetic foot" class="wp-image-18514" srcset="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pexels-kampus-6111599.Hn_jkq0Z_Bzqb8-1-1024x683.webp 1024w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pexels-kampus-6111599.Hn_jkq0Z_Bzqb8-1-300x200.webp 300w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pexels-kampus-6111599.Hn_jkq0Z_Bzqb8-1-768x512.webp 768w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pexels-kampus-6111599.Hn_jkq0Z_Bzqb8-1-1536x1024.webp 1536w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pexels-kampus-6111599.Hn_jkq0Z_Bzqb8-1.webp 1920w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Image source: Radii Devices)</em></figcaption></figure>
<p>The study highlighted that while both sockets were often very similar in comfort, the new technology provides a significant advantage in efficiency. By generating an excellent initial design almost instantly, it promises to reduce the number of appointments and iterations needed for a perfect fit. This not only improves the experience for the patient but could also be a crucial tool in reducing backlogs and waiting lists within healthcare systems like the NHS. Participants’ detailed feedback also reinforced the importance of the prosthetist’s role, who can use the generated design as a starting point and apply their expertise to make patient-specific adjustments for sensitive areas or individual preferences.</p>
<p>Looking ahead, the future of this technology is bright. The goal isn’t to replace the highly skilled prosthetist but to empower them with a powerful new tool. By combining vast datasets of successful fittings with the clinician’s expertise, the process becomes a more efficient and collaborative co-design between the prosthetist and the patient. With nearly 100 people already fitted with a prosthetic using this method in the UK and USA, and the final stage of the study underway, this evidence-generated design approach is poised to become a new standard of care. It represents a significant step forward, promising to enhance the quality of life for prosthetic users by delivering greater comfort and a better fitting experience, faster than ever before.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/25407472.prosthetic-legs-improved-new-technology/?ref=rss"><em>Source: </em>Daily Echo</a></p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>This blog post was generated by an AI assistant. I analyzed the provided news article and research paper, extracting and synthesizing key information from both. My primary function was to process the complex details of the study—including its methodology, participant data, and qualitative feedback—and then restructure that information into a cohesive, easy-to-read blog post that met the specified length and content requirements.</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/data-enabled-prosthetic-socket-design/">A New Dawn for Prosthetics: How Data is Transforming Socket Design</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.</p>
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<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18510</post-id> </item>
<item>
<title>Seeing a New Future: How Smart Glasses Are Unlocking Independence For Visually Impaired Individuals</title>
<link>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/smart-glasses-for-visually-impaired-individuals/</link>
<comments>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/smart-glasses-for-visually-impaired-individuals/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Venkat]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 26 Aug 2025 17:25:54 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Vision]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">http://assistivetechnologyblog.com/?p=18339</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>Meta's smart glasses are more than a stylish gadget. Discover their powerful, unexpected role in assistive technology and how they are creating a more inclusive future for everyone.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/smart-glasses-for-visually-impaired-individuals/">Seeing a New Future: How Smart Glasses Are Unlocking Independence For Visually Impaired Individuals</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p><a href="https://www.meta.com/in/ai-glasses/">Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses</a>, while not explicitly designed as assistive technology, are gaining recognition for their potential to significantly improve accessibility and independence for many people. By integrating voice control, open-ear audio, and a camera into a stylish and commonly worn accessory, these glasses offer a more natural and seamless way to interact with the world. This design is particularly beneficial for individuals with hearing loss, vision differences, or limited dexterity, as it allows for hands-free operation and access to information without the need to use a phone.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.bemyeyes.com/be-my-eyes-smartglasses/">The partnership with Be My Eyes</a>, a platform connecting blind and low-vision users with sighted volunteers, has unlocked the true potential of these smart glasses as a powerful accessibility tool. Through a simple voice command, users can connect with a volunteer who can see through the glasses’ camera and <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2015/01/be-my-eyes-app-that-lets-blind-people.html">provide real-time assistance</a>, from reading signs to navigating unfamiliar environments. This integration transforms the glasses from a convenient gadget into a tool that fosters greater independence, confidence, and participation in daily activities, including employment.</p>
<p>The development of the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, along with <a href="https://www.nuanceaudio.com/en-us">EssilorLuxottica’s Nuance Audio hearing glasses</a>, signals a broader shift towards inclusive design in mainstream technology. These products demonstrate a move away from specialized, often conspicuous, assistive devices towards technology that is integrated into everyday items. This approach not only enhances functionality but also normalizes the use of assistive technology, allowing people to live more fully without feeling singled out. The focus on intuitive, voice-controlled interaction in the Ray-Ban Meta glasses, in particular, opens up new possibilities for how technology can adapt to individual needs.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Be My Eyes "Call a Volunteer" on Meta AI Glasses" width="650" height="366" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fc6ulTxDxSM?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-other-uses-of-smart-glasses">Other Uses of Smart Glasses</h2>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Real-time Captioning and Translation</h3>
<p>For individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, smart glasses can provide real-time captions of conversations. This technology company, <b>Xander</b>, has developed “<a class="ng-star-inserted" data-hveid="0" data-ved="0CAAQ_4QMahcKEwjk6LKd4qiPAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQLw" href="https://www.xanderglasses.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">XanderGlasses</a>” that use augmented reality to project captions of spoken conversations into the wearer’s field of view. Another company, <b>XRAI</b>, offers a software solution that can be integrated into existing smart glasses to provide <a class="ng-star-inserted" data-hveid="0" data-ved="0CAAQ_4QMahcKEwjk6LKd4qiPAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQMA" href="https://www.hearingtracker.com/hearing-glasses/hear-with-your-eyes-five-ar-live-captioning-glasses" target="_blank" rel="noopener">live captioning and translation</a>. These technologies aim to make in-person conversations more accessible in various environments.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cognitive and Memory Support</h3>
<p>Smart glasses are being explored as a tool to assist individuals with cognitive decline and memory loss. The “<a class="ng-star-inserted" data-hveid="0" data-ved="0CAAQ_4QMahcKEwjk6LKd4qiPAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQMQ" href="https://www.media.mit.edu/wearables/mithril/memory-glasses.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Memory Glasses</a>” project from the <b>MIT Media Lab</b> is a proactive, context-aware memory aid designed to deliver reminders without requiring the user’s active attention. Similarly, the <b>Envision Glasses</b> are smart glasses for people with low vision that offer features like text recognition, scene description, and facial recognition, which can also be beneficial for those with cognitive challenges. While not exclusively for memory support, a Reddit user shared a student project concept called “<a href="http://https.www.reddit.com/r/dementia/comments/1m0tvpf/smart_glasses_to_support_early_cognitive_decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NeuroCare AI Glass</a>” which would use an empathetic voice assistant to help users recognize faces and places.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Navigation for Mobility Impairments</h3>
<p>While primarily designed for the visually impaired, the navigation features in smart glasses can also benefit those with mobility impairments. By providing hands-free, voice-guided directions and obstacle detection, these glasses can help users navigate their surroundings more safely and independently. <b>Vision-Aid’s</b> “<a class="ng-star-inserted" href="https://visionaid.org/about-smart-vision-glasses/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-hveid="0" data-ved="0CAAQ_4QMahcKEwjk6LKd4qiPAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQMw">Smart Vision Glass</a>” is an example of a device that includes walking assistance with obstacle detection and timely voice alerts. Research is also being conducted on using smart glasses with GPS for <a class="ng-star-inserted" href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/393623484_Smart_Glasses_with_Voice_Assistance_and_GPS_for_Independent_Mobility_of_the_Blind_People" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-hveid="0" data-ved="0CAAQ_4QMahcKEwjk6LKd4qiPAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQNA">independent mobility</a>, which could be adapted to highlight accessible routes.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Remote Assistance for a Wider Range of Tasks</h3>
<p>The concept of remote assistance, similar to Be My Eyes, is being widely adopted in various industries using smart glasses. Companies like <b>Vuzix</b> and <b>TeamViewer</b> offer remote assistance solutions that allow frontline workers to connect with experts who can see what they see and provide real-time guidance. This “see-what-I-see” technology can be applied to a wide range of tasks, from complex industrial repairs to medical procedures. For example, <b>Zoho Lens</b> provides <a class="ng-star-inserted" data-hveid="0" data-ved="0CAAQ_4QMahcKEwjk6LKd4qiPAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQNQ" href="https://www.zoho.com/lens/smart-glasses-software.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AR smart glasses software</a> for remote assistance in field service, maintenance, and healthcare.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Personalized Auditory Experiences</h3>
<p>For individuals with sensory processing disorders, smart glasses with integrated audio can offer a way to manage their auditory environment. While the primary focus of many smart glasses is on providing information, the underlying technology of bone conduction or directional speakers can be used to create personalized soundscapes. Research from the journal <b>PLOS One</b> has investigated the use of “<a class="ng-star-inserted" href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0290431" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-hveid="0" data-ved="0CAAQ_4QMahcKEwjk6LKd4qiPAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQNg">acoustic touch</a>” with smart glasses to assist people who are blind, and this concept of using spatial audio could be adapted to help individuals with sensory sensitivities by either masking or enhancing specific sounds in their environment.</p>
<p><em><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/billschiffmiller/2025/08/18/be-my-eyes-turns-ray-ban-meta-smart-glasses-into-assistive-technology/">Source: Forbes</a></em></p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>This post was developed with the assistance of an AI tool to help with research and content generation. I provided a source article, which the AI then summarized and used as a basis to brainstorm other potential accessibility uses for the technology. This process helped streamline the initial drafting and exploration of the topic. Is this a good use of AI? Why or why not? Let me know in the comments below!</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/smart-glasses-for-visually-impaired-individuals/">Seeing a New Future: How Smart Glasses Are Unlocking Independence For Visually Impaired Individuals</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.</p>
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<title>Breaking the Silence: How Rose Ayling-Ellis is Redefining TV Inclusion With Code of Silence</title>
<link>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/code-of-silence/</link>
<comments>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/code-of-silence/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Venkat]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 13 Aug 2025 07:52:41 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Hearing]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">http://assistivetechnologyblog.com/?p=18169</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>A new British crime drama, “Code of Silence,” has been making waves for its compelling plot and its significant contribution to on-screen inclusion. The series, which holds a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, centers on Alison Brooks, a deaf canteen worker portrayed by deaf actress Rose Ayling-Ellis. Alison’s exceptional lip-reading skills draw her into a police investigation of a jewelry heist. The show has been lauded not just for its plot, but for its groundbreaking ability to convey the authentic sensory experience of being deaf, from its visual style to its intricate sound design. It is also available in both American and British Sign Language, a major step forward for accessibility. Rose Ayling-Ellis’s role in the show’s success extends far beyond her powerful on-screen performance. As an executive producer, she was involved in all stages of production, from the initial writing process to the final edit, ensuring an authentic portrayal of the deaf experience. She drew from her own frustrations with discrimination in past jobs to build Alison’s layered character. To create the show’s unique soundscape, she had the crew listen through her own hearing aids with a special stethoscope so they could understand the mechanical, unfiltered noise she [...]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/code-of-silence/">Breaking the Silence: How Rose Ayling-Ellis is Redefining TV Inclusion With Code of Silence</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>A new British crime drama, “Code of Silence,” has been making waves for its compelling plot and its significant contribution to <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/07/sinners-basl.html">on-screen inclusion</a>. The series, which holds a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, centers on Alison Brooks, a deaf canteen worker portrayed by deaf actress Rose Ayling-Ellis. Alison’s exceptional lip-reading skills draw her into a police investigation of a jewelry heist. The show has been lauded not just for its plot, but for its groundbreaking ability to convey the authentic sensory experience of being deaf, from its visual style to its intricate sound design. It is also available in both American and British Sign Language, a major step forward for accessibility.</p>
<p>Rose Ayling-Ellis’s role in the show’s success extends far beyond her powerful on-screen performance. As an executive producer, she was involved in all stages of production, from the initial writing process to the final edit, ensuring an authentic portrayal of the deaf experience. She drew from <a href="https://tellyvisions.org/article/code-silence-interview-rose-ayling-ellis">her own frustrations with discrimination</a> in past jobs to build Alison’s layered character. To create the show’s unique soundscape, she had the crew listen through her own hearing aids with a special stethoscope so they could understand the mechanical, unfiltered noise she experiences. This recording was then used as a reference by the sound department, which also included deaf percussionist Evelyn Glennie, to create a richer, more genuine story.</p>
<figure data-carousel-extra='{"blog_id":1,"permalink":"https:\/\/assistivetechnologyblog.com\/code-of-silence\/"}' class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1070" height="485" data-attachment-id="18172" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/code-of-silence/code-of-silence-key-art-vertical/" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Key-Art-Vertical.avif" data-orig-size="1070,485" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="Code of Silence Key Art Vertical" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Key-Art-Vertical.avif" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Key-Art-Vertical.avif" data-id="18172" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Key-Art-Vertical.avif" alt="Vertical key art for the TV show "Code of Silence," featuring a dramatic and serious close-up of actress Rose Ayling-Ellis looking directly at the camera." class="wp-image-18172"/></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" data-attachment-id="18171" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/code-of-silence/code_of_silence_episode1_02_0/" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/code_of_silence_episode1_02_0.jpg" data-orig-size="1500,1001" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="code_of_silence_episode1_02_0" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/code_of_silence_episode1_02_0-300x200.jpg" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/code_of_silence_episode1_02_0-1024x683.jpg" data-id="18171" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/code_of_silence_episode1_02_0-1024x683.jpg" alt="Rose Ayling-Ellis, with a concerned expression, is seen staring at a computer monitor." class="wp-image-18171" srcset="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/code_of_silence_episode1_02_0-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/code_of_silence_episode1_02_0-300x200.jpg 300w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/code_of_silence_episode1_02_0-768x513.jpg 768w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/code_of_silence_episode1_02_0.jpg 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" data-attachment-id="18174" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/code-of-silence/code-of-silence-s1-4/" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-S1-4.png" data-orig-size="2500,1667" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="Code of Silence S1 – 4" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-S1-4-300x200.png" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-S1-4-1024x683.png" data-id="18174" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-S1-4-1024x683.png" alt="Actress Rose Ayling-Ellis in a what seems like a dark alley. Both her hands are up." class="wp-image-18174" srcset="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-S1-4-1024x683.png 1024w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-S1-4-300x200.png 300w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-S1-4-768x512.png 768w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-S1-4-1536x1024.png 1536w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-S1-4-2048x1366.png 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" data-attachment-id="18173" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/code-of-silence/code-of-silence-season-1-episode-4-rose-ayling-ellis-keiron-moore/" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Season-1-Episode-4-Rose-Ayling-Ellis-Keiron-Moore.jpg" data-orig-size="1920,1080" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="Code of Silence Season 1 Episode 4 Rose Ayling Ellis Keiron Moore" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Season-1-Episode-4-Rose-Ayling-Ellis-Keiron-Moore-300x169.jpg" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Season-1-Episode-4-Rose-Ayling-Ellis-Keiron-Moore-1024x576.jpg" data-id="18173" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Season-1-Episode-4-Rose-Ayling-Ellis-Keiron-Moore-1024x576.jpg" alt="A nighttime, close-up shot of Rose Ayling-Ellis and Kieron Moore inside a library." class="wp-image-18173" srcset="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Season-1-Episode-4-Rose-Ayling-Ellis-Keiron-Moore-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Season-1-Episode-4-Rose-Ayling-Ellis-Keiron-Moore-300x169.jpg 300w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Season-1-Episode-4-Rose-Ayling-Ellis-Keiron-Moore-768x432.jpg 768w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Season-1-Episode-4-Rose-Ayling-Ellis-Keiron-Moore-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Season-1-Episode-4-Rose-Ayling-Ellis-Keiron-Moore-310x174.jpg 310w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Season-1-Episode-4-Rose-Ayling-Ellis-Keiron-Moore.jpg 1920w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
</figure>
<p>The show fosters inclusivity not just in front of the camera but behind it as well. The production team intentionally created a welcoming environment for all, demonstrating that accommodations lead to better work. The show’s creator, Catherine Moulton, is hard of hearing, and executive producer Bryony Arnold is a wheelchair user. The production hired an access coordinator and made practical adjustments for its crew, such as providing ramps, color-coded signage for a team member with a visual impairment, and stools for those who couldn’t stand all day. This commitment to valuing every crew member created a pleasant atmosphere where everyone felt seen and could do their best work, proving that shows centered on disability, both on-screen and off, are what audiences are eager to watch.</p>
<p>Ayling-Ellis’s broader career continues to break barriers. After <a href="https://about.amazingpeopleschools.com/ap-library/rose-ayling-ellis/#:~:text=As%20a%20child%2C%20Rose%20took,What%20Am%20I%20Known%20For%3F">discovering her passion for acting</a> through the National Deaf Children’s Society, she gained widespread recognition in “EastEnders” and as the first deaf winner of “Strictly Come Dancing.” Through her advocacy, documentaries, and a growing list of acclaimed roles in television and theatre, Ayling-Ellis is challenging industry stereotypes and paving the way for more authentic representation in media.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Code Of Silence Season 1 Trailer" width="650" height="366" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dVyLWe7nQVA?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>
<p><em><a href="https://nationalpost.com/entertainment/television/deaf-character-makes-herself-heard-in-code-of-silence">Source (1): National Post </a></em>, <em><a href="https://comicbook.com/tv-shows/news/new-streaming-crime-drama-code-of-silence-perfect-rotten-tomatoes-score/">Source (2): Comic Book</a> </em></p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em><b><i>A Note on Generation:</i></b> This article was crafted with the assistance of Google Gemini. The process involved synthesizing key information from multiple sources, including two initial articles and a detailed interview with star Rose Ayling-Ellis. The AI was prompted to combine these sources, identify central themes, and structure the content into a cohesive narrative focusing on representation and the show’s inclusive production process. The final text is a result of this AI-assisted curation and refinement.</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/code-of-silence/">Breaking the Silence: How Rose Ayling-Ellis is Redefining TV Inclusion With Code of Silence</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.</p>
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<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18169</post-id> </item>
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<title>“Sinners” Movie Review: A Horror Hit and a Landmark for Black American Sign Language</title>
<link>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/sinners-basl/</link>
<comments>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/sinners-basl/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Venkat]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Mon, 28 Jul 2025 17:51:38 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Hearing]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">http://assistivetechnologyblog.com/?p=18068</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>Discover the critically acclaimed horror film "Sinners" now streaming on Max. Learn about its groundbreaking release in Black American Sign Language (BASL), what the reviews are saying, and why this is a pivotal moment for representation and accessibility in cinema.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/sinners-basl/">“Sinners” Movie Review: A Horror Hit and a Landmark for Black American Sign Language</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<div id="model-response-message-contentr_baf95c90d45d4839" class="markdown markdown-main-panel stronger enable-updated-hr-color" dir="ltr">
<p>The critically acclaimed period horror film, “Sinners,” is now available for streaming on Max, offering a groundbreaking viewing experience. In a first for a feature film, “Sinners” is accessible in Black American Sign Language (BASL), a distinct dialect of <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2024/09/universal-studios-asl-inclusive-a-quiet-place.html">American Sign Language (ASL)</a>. This initiative marks a significant advancement in accessibility and representation for the Black Deaf community, providing an immersive experience that acknowledges the unique cultural and linguistic nuances of BASL. The BASL interpretation is performed by Nakia Smith, a prominent advocate in the Black Deaf community, and directed by Rosa Lee Timm.</p>
<p>Viewers have the option to stream the original theatrical version of the film or the BASL-interpreted version. Max’s announcement highlighted the importance of this release for the Black Deaf community, allowing them to experience the film in a language that is culturally their own. The move has been praised by Warner Bros. Discovery as a step towards authentic storytelling and inclusive accessibility, recognizing that a one-size-fits-all approach is not sufficient in streaming.</p>
<p>“Sinners” has been met with generally positive reviews from critics, who have lauded its ambition, originality, and visual style. The film, a blend of historical drama, horror, and musical, is described as a “bold, original, and… fresh mix of genres” by <i>The Times of India</i> and a “bloody, brilliant motion picture” by a review thread on <i>Reddit</i>. The narrative, set in the Jim Crow South, uses vampirism as a metaphor to explore the exploitation of Black culture. Michael B. Jordan’s dual performance in the lead roles has been widely praised as powerful and compelling.</p>
<p>However, some critics have pointed out the film’s occasional slow pace and overstuffed narrative. A review from <i>RogerEbert.com</i> notes that while ambitious, the film’s designs “ultimately conform to genre conventions, causing the intended awe to happen only in flashes.” Despite some reservations, the consensus is that “Sinners” is a unique and thought-provoking cinematic experience. You can read more in the reviews from <a class="ng-star-inserted" href="https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/english/movie-reviews/sinners/movie-review/120415285.cms" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Times of India</a>, <a class="ng-star-inserted" href="https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/sinners-movie-review-2025" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Roger Ebert</a>, and <a class="ng-star-inserted" href="https://www.metacritic.com/movie/sinners/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Metacritic</a>.</p>
<p>The inclusion of Black American Sign Language in “Sinners” highlights a <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2016/08/film-festival-in-india-encourages-deaf-film-maker-to-have-stronger-presence-in-film-making.html">crucial evolution in media accessibility</a>, moving beyond a generic approach to one of authentic cultural representation. Recognizing BASL as a unique language with its own history and nuances is vital for providing the Black Deaf community with content that truly reflects their experience. For future productions, filmmakers and studios should follow this precedent by actively incorporating diverse sign languages and their variants. This means collaborating directly with Deaf cultural consultants, directors, and performers from the specific communities being portrayed to ensure the interpretation is not just accurate, but also culturally and emotionally resonant. By treating sign language as an integral artistic component, rather than a simple add-on, the film industry can create genuinely inclusive experiences that honor the diversity within the Deaf community.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/news/sinners-black-american-sign-language-max-b2780207.html"><em>Source: Independent</em></a></p>
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<iframe loading="lazy" title="Sinners | Black American Sign Language Official Trailer | Max" width="650" height="366" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/l2h2lC0vlX4?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<p>The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/sinners-basl/">“Sinners” Movie Review: A Horror Hit and a Landmark for Black American Sign Language</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.</p>
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<item>
<title>Swype AI: High Schooler Develops AI App That Turns Your Hand into a Computer Mouse</title>
<link>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/swype-ai/</link>
<comments>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/swype-ai/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Venkat]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 23 Jul 2025 14:17:45 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Artificial Intelligence]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Motor Skills]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Paralysis]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Seniors]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">http://assistivetechnologyblog.com/?p=18063</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>Discover Swype AI, an app by teen inventor Dhanvin Ganeshkumar. Using predictive AI, it offers smooth, gesture-based computer control for users with motor disabilities like Parkinson's, arthritis, and ALS.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/swype-ai/">Swype AI: High Schooler Develops AI App That Turns Your Hand into a Computer Mouse</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.</p>
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<p>Inspired by his grandparents’ struggles with modern technology due to motor tremors, high school junior Dhanvin Ganeshkumar is developing an assistive app called Swype AI. The application aims to make computers more accessible for people with motor disabilities, such as those caused by Parkinson’s disease or ALS. Swype AI will allow a user to control their computer through a free smartphone app, using simple gestures or voice commands, bypassing the need for a traditional mouse or keyboard which can be difficult for some to operate.</p>
<p>Ganeshkumar is developing the app as a for-profit startup, a decision he made after realizing a non-profit model would be harder to scale. However, his primary mission is to ensure the technology is widely available. The plan is to offer the core functionality of Swype AI for free, making it accessible to underprivileged communities that cannot afford expensive assistive devices, which can often cost over $1,000. The company will generate revenue through optional in-app purchases for advanced customization features.</p>
<p>Built using Python and advanced hand-tracking technology, the project faced a significant technical hurdle during development. Early versions of the app had a noticeable lag, and the unsteady hand movements of users with tremors would cause the on-screen cursor to be erratic and difficult to control. To solve this, the team integrated a sophisticated smoothing filter, a mathematical tool that intelligently predicts the user’s intended motion and filters out the “noise” from involuntary shakes. By fine-tuning this system, they were able to create a highly responsive and accurate cursor that moves smoothly in real-time, providing a reliable and frustration-free user experience.</p>
<p>Currently in beta testing, Swype AI has already gained significant traction. Ganeshkumar has consulted with over 15 accessibility organizations to refine the app and has secured around $7,500 in funding and awards to cover initial production costs. He is using coding skills learned at his STEM-focused high school and research experience to build the app, with plans for a public launch within the next few months. He hopes his journey encourages other young people to develop and share their innovative ideas.</p>
<p>Watch the video below to see some quick demos of how Swype AI works and <a href="https://swypeai.tech">head to their website</a> to learn more about Swype AI.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Swype - United Hacks" width="650" height="366" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_ptp1MVTDZo?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>
<p><a href="https://www.arlnow.com/2025/07/10/arlington-high-schooler-creates-assistive-app-for-people-with-motor-disabilities/"><em>Source (1): </em>ARL Now</a>, <em><a href="https://devpost.com/software/swype-ai-ah3vpg">Source (2): DevPost</a></em></p>
<p> </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/swype-ai/">Swype AI: High Schooler Develops AI App That Turns Your Hand into a Computer Mouse</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.</p>
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<title>The Bike Leg Project: How One Prosthetist is Building Low-Cost Limbs from Bicycles</title>
<link>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/bike-leg-project/</link>
<comments>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/bike-leg-project/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Venkat]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Fri, 27 Jun 2025 12:47:58 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">http://assistivetechnologyblog.com/?p=18051</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>Ben Hogan, a certified prosthetist and orthotist, is tackling the global challenge of prosthetic limb accessibility by fabricating them from bicycle parts. Troubled by the World Health Organization’s finding that only 1 in 10 individuals needing a prosthetic receive one, Hogan developed a functional, lightweight, and reliable prosthetic leg for those with below-the-knee amputations. His design reimagines the bicycle frame, already engineered to support human weight, into a prosthetic limb, with the wheel and spokes forming the foot and a custom-woven basket serving as the socket. Driven by his background as a bike mechanic, Hogan is passionate about evolving the field of prosthetics. He intends for his innovation to be a paradigm shift, making prosthetic care more attainable. To this end, he is actively sharing his methods and plans to present his “bike leg” at an international conference, aiming to disseminate this knowledge globally rather than keeping it proprietary. The assembly of the bike leg is an intricate process requiring considerable technical skill. It begins with the deconstruction of a steel bicycle frame, retaining only the seat tube and seat stays. The seat tube is then quartered to create four uprights which are bent and molded to the patient’s limb, [...]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/bike-leg-project/">The Bike Leg Project: How One Prosthetist is Building Low-Cost Limbs from Bicycles</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.</p>
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<div id="model-response-message-contentr_402caea7dc5a8b18" class="markdown markdown-main-panel tutor-markdown-rendering enable-updated-hr-color" dir="ltr">
<p data-sourcepos="1:1-1:586">Ben Hogan, a certified prosthetist and orthotist, is tackling the global challenge of prosthetic limb accessibility by fabricating them from bicycle parts. Troubled by the World Health Organization’s finding that only 1 in 10 individuals needing a prosthetic receive one, Hogan developed a functional, lightweight, and reliable prosthetic leg for those with below-the-knee amputations. His design reimagines the bicycle frame, already engineered to support human weight, into a prosthetic limb, with the wheel and spokes forming the foot and a custom-woven basket serving as the socket.</p>
<p data-sourcepos="3:1-3:397">Driven by his background as a bike mechanic, Hogan is passionate about evolving the field of prosthetics. He intends for his innovation to be a paradigm shift, making prosthetic care more attainable. To this end, he is <a href="https://www.projectbikeleg.com">actively sharing his methods</a> and plans to present his “bike leg” at an international conference, aiming to disseminate this knowledge globally rather than keeping it proprietary.</p>
<p data-sourcepos="5:1-5:1521">The <a href="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/67f2be4121c8ca05e9991c31/t/67f4861e9263c33ccbea89eb/1744078382875/Bike+project+PDF+good.pdf">assembly of the bike leg</a> is an intricate process requiring considerable technical skill. It begins with the deconstruction of a steel bicycle frame, retaining only the seat tube and seat stays. The seat tube is then quartered to create four uprights which are bent and molded to the patient’s limb, with two positioned on either side of the shin and two at the back. A custom basket is woven around the upper part of the limb to form the socket, which should not extend above the kneecap or behind the knee. The seat stays are then bent, trimmed, and riveted to the rear uprights. Crossbars are fashioned from the bike’s chainstays and riveted to the front and rear uprights. Sections of a tire are riveted inside the uprights to act as a suspension “trampoline” for the socket. The foot is made from two equal lengths of the wheel rim, which are shaped into a rocker. Spokes are run through the rim sections and attached to the seat’s frame to connect the foot. The entire prosthesis is suspended using a piece of a bicycle tube, and the final adjustments for fit and comfort are made. The complexity of the tasks, which involve metal cutting, bending, and riveting, suggests that the assembly is quite difficult for someone without a background in mechanics or fabrication.</p>
<h2 data-sourcepos="7:1-7:34">Analysis of the “Bike Leg”</h2>
<p data-sourcepos="9:1-9:36"><strong>Bike Parts and Difficulty Level:</strong></p>
<p data-sourcepos="11:1-11:78">The construction of the prosthetic leg utilizes a range of bicycle components:</p>
<ul data-sourcepos="12:1-17:0">
<li data-sourcepos="12:1-12:115"><strong>Frame and Stays:</strong> The steel frame’s seat tube and seat stays provide the core structure.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="13:1-13:98"><strong>Chain Stays:</strong> These are repurposed for creating stabilizing crossbars.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="14:1-14:153"><strong>Wheel Rims and Spokes:</strong> Rims are shaped into a functional foot, which is then attached to the leg structure using spokes.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="15:1-15:178"><strong>Tire and Tube:</strong> The tire is used for the socket’s suspension and as tread for the foot, while the tube helps to suspend the entire prosthesis.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="16:1-17:0"><strong>Shifter and Cable:</strong> These parts are used to create compression.</li>
</ul>
<p data-sourcepos="18:1-18:297">The difficulty level is high, demanding skills in metalworking, such as cutting and bending steel, and riveting. A fundamental understanding of biomechanics is also crucial to ensure the prosthetic is shaped and fitted correctly for the user.</p>
<h2 data-sourcepos="20:1-20:46"><strong>How, When, Where, and Why This is Helpful</strong></h2>
<p data-sourcepos="22:1-22:428">This innovative approach is most impactful in <strong>low-resource environments</strong> where conventional prosthetic technology is not available or is prohibitively expensive. Bicycles are ubiquitous worldwide, making them a readily available source of materials. The “why” is compellingly answered by the vast number of people living without necessary prosthetic devices. Hogan’s project offers a viable solution to this widespread issue.</p>
<p data-sourcepos="24:1-24:274">The “bike leg” is particularly advantageous in developing nations and remote areas. It empowers local technicians to build and maintain prosthetics using local resources. In comparison to other low-cost alternatives like 3D printing, the bike leg offers distinct advantages:</p>
<ul data-sourcepos="26:1-28:0">
<li data-sourcepos="26:1-26:332"><strong>Accessibility and Durability:</strong> 3D printers require stable electricity, specialized materials, and technical know-how, which can be scarce in some regions. Discarded bicycles are far more common. A steel-framed prosthetic is also significantly more durable, especially on rough terrain, compared to standard 3D-printed plastics.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="27:1-28:0"><strong>Repairability:</strong> A damaged bike leg can be repaired using basic mechanical skills and spare bicycle parts, which are much more accessible than the resources needed to reprint a broken 3D-printed prosthetic.</li>
</ul>
<p data-sourcepos="29:1-29:168">In essence, Hogan’s “bike leg” presents a practical, durable, and accessible alternative for prosthetic care in many parts of the world where the need is most critical.</p>
<p data-sourcepos="29:1-29:168">Watch the videos below to learn more about the Bike Leg and how it’s been helping people. You can also<a href="https://www.projectbikeleg.com"> watch the full process of making the Bike Leg</a> on Ben’s website.</p>
<p data-sourcepos="29:1-29:168"> </p>
</div>
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Project Bike Leg 🚴‍♂💡" width="650" height="366" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Q_YCvSjjMIo?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Michigan man aims for global shift with bicycle-based prosthetics" width="650" height="366" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/91hQ37K5Qrs?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>
<p><a href="https://www.wzzm13.com/article/news/health/michigan-man-prosthetic-legs-out-of-bike-parts/69-b58fcd9c-0074-49ea-b68d-85214c221f94"><em>Source: </em>WZZM 13</a></p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>Google’s AI assistant, Gemini, was used to help create this article. It assisted by summarizing the original source article and analyzing a detailed PDF to create the step-by-step assembly instructions. Gemini then synthesized the information from both sources into a comprehensive post. The tool also helped generate the post’s title, description, keywords, and image alt text.</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/bike-leg-project/">The Bike Leg Project: How One Prosthetist is Building Low-Cost Limbs from Bicycles</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.</p>
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