This campaign is based on the development of software to improve the computer access for people without mobility. The aim goal of this campaign is to have the necessary funding to make this solution a real product that can be reach as many people as possible.
It is estimated that 15% of the world's population has disability. In the European Union there are about 80 million of people affected by disabilities. With the aging of the population the number is expected to increase to 120 million in 2020. The public for this software are people with physical disabilities, people with the most limited access to the computer, thus needing some support product to improve access to the technology.
Analyzing the market, in concrete numbers, in Portugal there are 156 246 people with physical disabilities (according to the 2001 censuses). In view of these numbers, It is important to create tools that can help access to the computer and thus contribute to the empowerment of people with disability. This brings Smile-access!
This solution consists of an automatic facial expression recognition system that enables interaction with the computer to people without mobility or low mobility. Based on an algorithm, a prototype was constructed capable of recognizing a person's facial expressions. For each expression there is an associated function that the computer needs to make. It can be a keyboard key or a click.
Beyond to requiring few movements, this interaction mode is a natural mode of communication, which facilitates the use and understanding.
There are many people who only use facial expressions as a way of communication with others. This solution can help to increase the quality of life for the people with disability in the moments of leisure or professional lives.
As I believe that, this solution will help people with disability, it must become a product to be accessible to all people who want to acquire it!
A minha prima a usar o Smile-Access
