AbleMouse

Product Introduction

1. AbleMouse is an open-source assistive technology that enables computer control through tongue movements or customizable pedal interfaces using Bluetooth connectivity. It provides an affordable DIY alternative to commercial solutions like MouthPad®, eye-tracking systems, or invasive neural interfaces, requiring no surgical procedures or proprietary hardware. The device supports wireless operation across multiple operating systems and is designed for users with limited motor function, including those with total paralysis.
2. The core value of AbleMouse lies in democratizing access to assistive technology by combining open-source design, ultra-low cost components, and intuitive usability. It eliminates financial barriers by offering a sub-$10 build cost while maintaining high precision and adaptability for diverse physical needs. The solution prioritizes immediate usability with plug-and-play functionality, ensuring accessibility for non-technical users and caregivers.

Main Features

1. AbleMouse provides universal accessibility by supporting control via tongue movements or customizable pedal inputs, accommodating users with varying degrees of motor impairment. The Bluetooth 5.0-enabled design ensures wireless operation up to 10 meters, with a 100Hz polling rate for precise cursor tracking. It includes configurable sensitivity settings and gesture recognition, allowing adaptation to individual user capabilities.
2. The device offers multi-platform compatibility with native support for Windows, macOS, and Android operating systems without requiring additional drivers. Automatic OS detection enables seamless switching between devices, while built-in HID (Human Interface Device) protocols ensure immediate recognition as a standard mouse input. This cross-platform functionality extends to mobile devices, supporting touchscreen interaction alternatives.
3. AbleMouse utilizes a modular open-source architecture based on ESP32 microcontrollers, providing hackable firmware and 3D-printable hardware designs. The system integrates capacitive touch sensors for pedal interfaces and MEMS accelerometers for tongue-controlled directional input, achieving ±0.05g resolution. All schematics and code are hosted on GitHub, enabling community-driven improvements and custom modifications.

Problems Solved

1. AbleMouse addresses the critical problem of expensive assistive technology, with commercial alternatives often costing thousands of dollars compared to its sub-$10 DIY implementation. It removes the need for specialized medical equipment or proprietary software licenses, which frequently create accessibility barriers. The solution specifically targets regions with limited healthcare infrastructure by using globally available components.
2. The primary user group includes individuals with ALS, spinal cord injuries (C1-C4 level), cerebral palsy, or post-stroke rehabilitation needs requiring alternative input methods. Secondary beneficiaries include special education institutions and occupational therapists needing cost-effective tools for patient support.
3. Typical applications include enabling paralyzed users to operate personal computers for communication, supporting rehabilitation patients in regaining digital interaction capabilities, and providing temporary assistive solutions during injury recovery. The device also serves as an educational tool for engineering students studying accessible technology design.

Unique Advantages

1. Unlike proprietary systems requiring recurring subscription fees, AbleMouse uses perpetual-free open-source licensing with no hidden costs or vendor lock-in. Commercial alternatives like Tobii Dynavox eye trackers (starting at $6,495) lack hardware customization options available in this solution.
2. The tongue control system implements machine learning-based motion stabilization algorithms to compensate for involuntary muscle movements, achieving 0.1mm cursor precision. Dual-mode operation allows simultaneous use of tongue tracking and pedal inputs for complex tasks like drag-and-drop operations.
3. Competitive advantages include a 20-minute average setup time versus days-long calibration processes in commercial eye trackers, and component availability through standard electronics distributors like Digi-Key or Mouser. The design achieves IP42-rated durability using $1 silicone enclosures, outperforming fragile medical-grade devices in cost-benefit ratio.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What operating systems does AbleMouse support? AbleMouse works natively with Windows 10/11, macOS 12+, and Android 9+ through standard HID protocols. No additional drivers are required for basic cursor control and click functions across these platforms.
2. Can non-technical users assemble the device without engineering expertise? The design requires basic soldering skills but provides pre-configured firmware binaries and step-by-step video guides for assembly. Most users enlist help from IT professionals or makerspace communities, with typical build time under 2 hours using common tools.
3. Where can I source components for under $10? The BOM (Bill of Materials) uses affordable parts like ESP32-WROOM modules ($3), MPU-6050 accelerometers ($1.50), and capacitive touch sensors ($0.20/unit). Detailed sourcing guides list AliExpress and eBay suppliers, with optional upgrades for medical-grade silicone components.