Adaptive Game Controller for Cerebral Palsy

I crafted this specialized assistive controller specifically for people dealing with cerebral palsy, with the aim of tackling their unique challenges. This device is all about stepping up accessibility, catering to users with different levels of motor function. The cool part is its versatility – you can control it either by mouth movements or manual maneuvers, making it a solid option for people with all kinds of physical abilities. My goal is to boost independence and make techie stuff more seamless for users. Plus, this is budget-friendly and user-centric to break down those tech barriers for folks with cerebral palsy. The big picture here is to stir up some positive vibes, getting individuals and groups alike to pitch in and make life better for people with disabilities.

Supplies

https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/920624427 (Scratch interface, where the game controller can be tested)

https://makeymakey.com/pages/remap (site where one can remap their MakeyMakey to suit your needs)

Supplies:

• Makey makey
• alligator clips
• foam core
• pool noodle
• copper tape
• aluminum tape
• electrical tape
• duct tape
• masking tape
• wafer paper
• plastic scotch tape dispenser
• velcro
• wire hanger
• exacto blade and knife
• sharpie
• elastic band

Step 1: Rotational Tape Dispenser

Material used:

tape dispenser, wire hanger, and electrical tape

1. Disassemble the tape dispenser into its two parts.
2. Utilize electrical tape and a wire hanger, attaching them securely to the circular section designated for the tape.
3. Ensure a tight and secure attachment to prevent any potential dislodging.
4. Verify that one end of the circle remains unobstructed by tape to facilitate easy reattachment to the tape dispenser.
5. Optionally, enhance security by adding Velcro to the sides, facilitating a more stable attachment to a wall if desired.
6. This wire will then be inserted into the pool noodle secured with hot glue and all types of tape

Step 2: Ground Conductor

Material used:

wafer paper, copper tape, electrical tape, sharpie, scotch tape

1. Acquire all the materials listed above.
2. Create two distinct attachments, which will be layered subsequently.
3. In the initial phase, obtain electrical and Scotch tape, cutting each to approximately 12 inches in length and half an inch in width.
4. Securely join these tapes and set aside the resulting assembly for later use.
5. Proceed to the second phase by cutting the copper tape as shown in the provided images and attaching a small but thick aluminum foil to one side only (alligator clip will grasp onto this).
6. Tape the copper tape on top of the electrical tape, and then tape the combined assembly on top of Scotch tape.
7. Label the Scotch tape with the names of the buttons intended for use.
8. Enhance the setup by adding wafer paper to the copper tape, facilitating ease when blowing unto flaps.

Step 3: Pool Noodle With Copper Tape

Material used:

pool noodle, copper tape, scissors, aluminum tape

1. Obtain a pool noodle, adjusting its length to approximately 14 inches or a size suitable for the intended number of buttons (e.g., 6 buttons).
2. Apply copper tape along the entire length of the noodle, ensuring it is 1 inch wide.
3. Position the copper tape in the middle of the noodle.
4. Use scissors or an exacto knife for precise cutting, segmenting the copper-taped noodle into sections, each measuring 1" x 2" wide – these will serve as the buttons.
5. Enhance functionality by affixing thick aluminum tape to the ends of the copper tape, providing points for the alligator clips to securely hold onto.

Step 4: Applying to Tube

Material used:

both attachments from step 2

1. Following the completion of steps 2 and 3, focus on integrating the components into a cohesive unit.
2. Initially, affix the electrical tape, covered with Scotch tape, on top of the copper tape, covering a small section of the upper part.
3. Subsequently, overlay the additional attachment containing labeled Scotch tape and wafer paper on top of the entire assembly.
4. Ensure the final configuration resembles the images shown above.
5. Attention to detail is crucial; make sure the sticky side of the copper tape is aligned with the electrical tape to prevent unintended adhesion to other parts.

Step 5: Wire Organizer

Material used:

pool noodle, foam core, any tape, alligator clips

1. Take the remaining pool noodle from the previous steps, which should be approximately 5 inches, and cut it in half.
2. Use an exacto knife for ease, although scissors can also be used.
3. With one half of the pool noodle, tape it to a foam core, aligning the length and width of the pool noodle.
4. Utilize any tape to secure the pool noodle to the foam core.
5. Considering the pool noodle's hollow interior, pass the alligator clips through it to enhance the visual presentation and facilitate easy rearrangement when needed.

Step 6: Makey Makey on Pool Noodle

Material used:

makey makey, scotch tape, any tape, alligator clips

1. Get your Makey Makey device and prepare to integrate it with the pool noodle assembly, ensuring a seamless combination.
2. Emphasize the assembly and organization aspects over precise measurements during this step.
3. Position the Makey Makey at a height that is easily reachable for the alligator clips, maintaining a clean and organized appearance.
4. Avoid clutter by ensuring that the Makey Makey is not too close to the assembly.
5. Attach the alligator clips based on the buttons being utilized.
6. Upon completion, connect the Makey Makey to your computer using the provided adapter; you will observe a green flash indicating successful connection. Your setup is now ready to use!

Step 7: Side Wire for Ground Conductor

Material used:

scotch tape, alligator clip

1. Upon completing step 2 and attaching aluminum foil to one side, this step is about how to designate it as your ground conductor.
2. Ensure close contact between the aluminum and copper, as it is crucial for proper conductivity in step 2.
3. Connect one end of an alligator clip to the end of the aluminum part and the other end to the Makey Makey's "earth" or ground terminal.
4. To achieve a neat and visually appealing finish, coil the alligator clip and affix it securely to the side of the pool noodle using scotch tape.

Step 8: 3D Printed Straw

Materials used:

3D printed straw, elastic band, duct tape or electrical tape, scissors

1. To optimize time management, initiate the process by utilizing the provided CAD file resembling a peculiar-looking straw and print it using your 3D printer.
2. Upon completion of the printing process, inspect for potential supports within the structure, ensuring their removal for a clean finish.
3. Obtain an elastic band and cut it to a length that comfortably fits around your head when stretched, avoiding excessive looseness.
4. Subsequently, secure the elastic band firmly to the 3D-printed straw, utilizing either electrical or duct tape based on personal preference. Prioritize meticulous taping to ensure a secure and durable attachment, preventing any unintended detachment.
5. when placing this to the person who is in need of this, make sure that the bigger opening is on the mouth and the smaller opening towards the flaps.

Step 9: Final Product

Materials:

happiness

YAY!!! You have completed all the steps and now all that is left is to put it to good use and if you have any questions let me know and i will try to answer them as soon as possible. Enjoy:)