Tata Consultancy Service (TCS) has developed an assistive technology-based application that will enable differently abled children overcome locomotive challenges. Named VHAB, the application aims at creating a positive effect on the mobility of children suffering from cerebral palsy and autism, especially related to improving their stability and balance.
“Virtual rehabilitation technology is currently available but these are useful only for those who already know how to perform tasks, for example an accident victim who needs assistance to walk. This is the first time that an application aimed at differently abled children has been developed,” according to Robin Tommy, ILP Innovations Lead, TCS.
The application combines user interface, sensors, and an analytical engine. With the aid of gestures and leap motion sensors, the children’s actions can be simulated on screen. A personalised group of exercises is created for various kinds of movements for hands, legs, palms and multiple limbs. These exercises are fun and interactive and monitor development. It would be possible to view the scores and progress at each level, providing a sense of motivation that will encourage the children to attempt the exercises repeatedly without compulsion. The scores achieved by the children can be used for analysing the level of improvement. Besides, the technology can be customised to suit the needs of children with various problems. Mr. Tommy and his team closely interacted with the children of Adarsh Rehabilitation Centre, Kochi, for this social innovation. “The biggest challenge is to personalise the technology since the requirement of each child is different,” says Mr. Tommy.
₹70-lakh technology
TCS provided the ₹70-lakh technology for free to the Kochi centre, which chipped in with ₹2 lakh as the cost of equipment. The team is working on the second phase of of VHAB. “In the second version, the children would have more exercises for hands and legs and ones that enhance the movement of fingers,” says Mr. Tommy.
