The Tongue Drive System (TDS) is an innovative assistive technology designed to help individuals with severe disabilities to control various devices using their tongue movements. Developed by researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology, the TDS utilizes a small magnetic tracer placed on the user’s tongue, which detects the position and movements of the tongue within the mouth.
Some Aspects of Tongue drive systems:
Magnetic Tracer:
A small magnetic tracer is attached to the user’s tongue, typically using a dental retainer or similar device. This tracer is equipped with sensors that detect its position and orientation within the mouth.
Magnetic Field Sensors:
External sensors are placed around the user’s head or in the vicinity of the mouth to detect changes in the magnetic field caused by the movement of the magnetic tracer on the tongue.
Tongue Movement Detection:
As the user moves their tongue within their mouth, the magnetic tracer’s position and orientation change, which are detected by the external sensors. These changes are then translated into control signals that can be used to operate various devices or interfaces.
Device Control:
The Tongue Drive System can be used to control a wide range of devices and interfaces, including computer cursors, electric wheelchairs, robotic arms, smartphones, and home automation systems. By moving their tongue in specific ways, users can navigate menus, type text, control cursor movements, and perform other tasks.
Customizable Interfaces:
The TDS can be customized to accommodate the individual needs and abilities of users with different levels of mobility and dexterity. Users can learn to perform specific tongue movements to trigger predefined commands or actions within the system.
Applications:
The Tongue Drive System has applications in assistive technology, rehabilitation, and accessibility, providing individuals with severe disabilities greater independence and control over their environment and devices.