Development of a system of aid for use the computer through a wireless system for people with quadriplegia in Ecuador

Abstract

The American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) defines the Quadriplegia as "the loss of motor function and/or sensitive in the cervical segments of the spinal cord, causing a functional deficit in arms, trunk, legs and pelvic organs, excluding the brachial plexus and peripheral nerves outside of the spinal canal". The causes are set according to the etiology of the spinal cord injury present in the affected person and these may be due to medical reasons or causes of trauma. Depends on the clinical profile of the patient to determine the type of injury and the level of cervical lesion in the spinal cord, which determines the loss of bodily functions. With this type of physical disability, the person loses control of different basic functions, creating dependency and assistance to perform various activities such as mobilization, intake of food or fluids, even for the use of technological devices, in Ecuador, as well as in other places, the disability generates poverty. At present, with the advance of technology, there are several types of aid techniques that have been developed as methods of support for people who have this condition of life, fostering in this way, social inclusion, education and employment with technological devices by voice command. The main purpose of this project, is to design and implement a prototype wireless that will allow the interaction between a person with quadriplegia and the computer, through the control of your head, neck and shoulders. With the aim of achieving a degree of independence, particularly in the use of technological devices. The results obtained are used to raise new areas of help for people with quadriplegia, as for example, the control of the wheelchair, among others.