As a lifelong gamer, I am totally stoked by the QuadControl. The QuadControl is a system that lets quadriplegics control video game controllers using their mouth.
QuadControl was founded by Ken Yankelevitz, a former aerospace engineer who has been developing controllers for quadriplegics since the days of Atari. The current offerings from QuadControl are a little more advanced, with kits for both the PS2 and Xbox 360 currently for sale on the site. The QuadControl seems like it takes some getting used to, but the gamer in the video here seems to have little difficulty pressing the buttons needed to control and move his character.
As of now, the kits aren't too cheap, coming in at $225 for the PS2 and $260 for the Xbox 360. Hopefully, a big-time controller company will see the potential of this untapped market and create its own kits. You can see the QuadContol in action in the video here.
Quadriplegic Gaming Controllers
The QuadControl Lets the Fully Paralyzed Play Video Games
Trend Themes
1. Adaptive Gaming Controllers - Developing controllers that allow people with disabilities to play video games opens up new opportunities for inclusive gaming experiences.
2. Assistive Technology for Quadriplegics - Innovations like the QuadControl system demonstrate the potential of assistive technology to improve the quality of life and leisure options for individuals with quadriplegia.
3. Accessible Gaming Solutions - The QuadControl and similar devices highlight the demand and potential for accessible gaming solutions, creating opportunities for companies to develop more affordable and diverse options.
Industry Implications
1. Gaming Hardware - The development of quadriplegic gaming controllers presents a disruptive innovation opportunity for gaming hardware manufacturers to create inclusive and accessible gaming experiences.
2. Assistive Technology - The QuadControl and similar products indicate a disruptive innovation opportunity for the assistive technology industry to provide tailored solutions for accessibility and leisure activities.
3. Healthcare Technology - Advancements in quadriplegic gaming controllers can lead to disruptive innovation opportunities within the healthcare technology sector, facilitating improved therapeutic and recreational options for patients.