Fw: small group is trying to put together a "wearable" computer

[rjc]

Let's here it for Linux.. check this out...
Note: the "Jupiter" mentioned here is Carl Dahlk's talking command-line
interface to linux. HMM, hope I spelled his name correctly from memory!
<smile>

----- Original Message -----
From: "David A. Ross" <davidross1 at mindspring.com>


>
> We, the Atlanta VA Rehab R&D Center, are the group developing this and
> using the DoubleTalk board with Jupiter to produce speech output.  It is
> a wearable computer orientation and wayfinding system running linux that
> uses gps and dead-reckoning when gps signal is not available. We are
> working in collaboration with Charmed Technology, the maker of the
> Charmed wearable computer.  They have made a custom wearable for us with
> the DoubleTalk board built into the case.
>
> We are also making this wearable compatible with a variety of street
> crossing systems.  And for indoor use we are working with a company
> called Talking Lights to replicate the gps signal indoors using
> fluorescent lights as the transmission signal. Finally, we are working
> with Mike May to develop an indoor mapping and routing system that will
> link into the building computer to obtain a directory and building map.
>
> Mike May also has a separate 5-year project funded by NIDRR to build an
> orientation and wayfinding system using the Braille Note computer.
> Unfortunately for Mike's programmers, and others who may want to make
> use of that system, it is running Windows CE.
>
> As to interfacing with an ATM, Gregg Vanderheiden has been working on
> that for a number of years now, and a standards group has formed to work
> on the communications protocol for doing this using either a serial IR
> link or blue tooth.  Once they complete this standard, and the banks
> agree to it, we can include this function on our wearable computer.
>
> By the way, banks really like this idea because the interface -- usually
> the touch screen --  is what always breaks on these machines.  Usually
> because someone tried touching them a bit too hard with a hammer. In
> response, banks have designed the ATM egg that has no user interface at
> all.  It is just a solid, locked vault with money in it and a slot to
> spit out the money.  To access it you need a PDA with IR communications
> or a cell phone with internet capability.  We happen to be using the
> same type of IR communications for our wearable that they are
> considering, so when it becomes available, we can implement it on the
> Charmed wearable.
>
> Our project just got started last January, and will last 3 years.
> Hopefully after that time, Charmed will put this special wearable
> computer on the market.
>
> Hope this is helpful,
> David
>
> --
> David A. Ross, Biomedical Research Engineer
> Atlanta VA Rehab R&D Center
> 1670 Clairmont Rd., Mail Stop 151R
> Decatur, GA  30033
> (404) 321-6111x6817
>
>