Vocal Switch

The Need:

Students with Cerebral Palsy at the Carter School have trouble integrating with their computer software. Hence, we need to create a device that can, without using fine motor skills, integrate with the existing hardware and software used for virtual learning at the school. We are developing an audio-controlled switch—as opposed to a mechanical switch—to help these students interact with virtual learning software.

The Solution:

We designed a prototype that use the vibrations of a vocal cord as inputs with limited success; however, this prototype must be tested in real time with various users. The method of using the vibrations was far too complicated. Now, we plan to implement a microphone to capture the audio. When the audio remains at a constant tone for a specified length of time, the switch will be activated by the Don Johnston switch controller.