German-based SensoMotoric Instruments (SMI), a vendor of eye-tracking technology is partnering with Wooster, Ohio-based PRC, an employee owned conglomorate that produces technology for the augmentative and alternative communication marketplace.
PRC is integrating SMI’s remote eye tracking technology into one its solutions for augmentative and alternative communication community called the Accent 1200.With this partnership, PRC released the NuEyeTracking System, a precise eye-gaze accessory for the Accent 1200 device. Attaching the NuEye Tracking System to the Accent 1200 speech‐output device gives users the ability to operate the communication device’s capabilities using just their eyes. The NuEye device automatically determines optimal single or double-eye tracking strategies based on user capabilities. The device also accommodates eyeglasses and contact lenses. Various calibration options support increased accuracy as the user’s eye control capabilities improve.
According to PRC, NuEye attaches in seconds to the Accent 1200 and works completely contact-free. A large trackbox area accommodates a wide range of user head movement. The NuEye is lightweight, portable and does not use much power consumption.
David Moffatt, President and CEO of PRC said the team at SMI worked closely with our engineering and product development staff and end users to create a solution that fits the needs of our clients and our business. The result is the integration of an accurate and highly reliable eye-gaze system into our Accent 1200 device. This solution will improve the lives of many individuals with disabilities.
Christian Villwock, Director of SMI´s OEM Solutions Business, said we are excited to have PRC as an OEM-customer using our eye tracking technology in their leading augmentative and alternative communication solution. With our technology, users gain complete visual control of their augmentative and alternative communication device with high robustness and accuracy. This is one of the many application fields where eye tracking provides a tremendous customer value.
PRC is a member of a consortium of companies that participate in the field of assistive technology and augmentative communication. The group includes Prentke Romich Company, Saltillo Corp., Liberator Ltd. of the UK, Prentke Romich Deutchland of Germany and Liberator Pty Ltd. of Australia.
These companies bring a broad range of products and services to provide the most comprehensive line of AAC devices in the industry. The employee owners of this consortium, many of whom have been with their organizations for more than 20 years, have dedicated their careers to assisting individuals with disabilities through the use of technology.