Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease in which patients gradually lose voluntary muscle control, ultimately leading to paralysis and speech impairment. Existing assistive communication devices are often hindered by high costs, incomplete language systems, and complex operations, leaving communication barriers unresolved—particularly in situations where patients rely heavily on foreign caregivers.
To address these challenges, Professor Chun-Ching Chen and his team at National Taipei University of Technology have developed HENRI, an eye-controlled communication interface system. By integrating eye-tracking technology with a multilingual graphic interface, HENRI significantly improves communication between ALS patients and their foreign caregivers.
Integration of Eye-Tracking Technology, Multilingual Interface, and 3D Models
The HENRI system utilizes eye-tracking technology alongside a graphic user interface (GUI) that supports multiple languages. Users can operate the interface on a computer or tablet simply by gazing at the screen, quickly and accurately conveying their needs. The system also incorporates 3D human body models, allowing patients to indicate specific areas of discomfort with precision, overcoming communication inaccuracies caused by language barriers. Additionally, HENRI offers the following key advantages:
Multilingual support: The system supports Chinese, English, Indonesian, and other languages, with real-time translation and voice playback functions. This enables foreign caregivers to instantly understand patient needs, significantly reducing the risks of miscommunication and delayed care.
Low-cost design: HENRI runs on standard computer hardware without the need for high-spec equipment, lowering the barrier to entry and increasing accessibility.
User-friendly interface: The intuitive and easy-to-navigate design ensures that patients and caregivers can use the system with minimal learning time.
Micro-interaction design: By incorporating micro-interaction features, the system effectively mitigates the “Midas Touch” effect commonly associated with eye-tracking interfaces, enhancing overall user experience.
Clinical test data show that patients using HENRI experience a significant reduction in response times when seeking assistance, with daily needs communicated more effectively, leading to a marked improvement in quality of life.
Broad Application Potential Across Multiple Patient Groups
According to Professor Chun-Ching Chen, the HENRI system is not only suitable for ALS patients but can also benefit other groups with communication barriers, such as post-operative intubated patients and individuals with severe physical disabilities. The system is expected to address critical communication challenges in caregiving scenarios and improve patients’ quality of life.
Currently, HENRI has been made available to members of the Taiwan Motor Neuron Disease Association and is planned for release on the Windows Store. The team also plans to expand its availability across more platforms in the future. Further development is underway to launch a mobile version, making it accessible to even more patients in medical institutions and long-term care facilities.
Resource: 眼球控制技術結合多語系圖形介面 漸凍患者溝通不卡關
