ALMA, Ark.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--InvoTek, Inc., a research and development company in Alma, Arkansas, has launched a new product using safe laser technology that enables a person with limited movement to write, communicate, and control their environment. The product will be unveiled at the Abilities Expo 2011 in Newark, New Jersey on Friday, May 20, 2011.
The Safe Laser System projects a low-power light-beam onto a light-sensing customizable keyboard. The device can generate a synthetic voice or output keystrokes to a computer. InvoTek developed the product in conjunction with researchers at Arkansas State University and manufactures the device in Alma.
Charlie Thompson, a 40-year-old North Little Rock, Arkansas resident, uses the Safe Laser System. “After my accident, I only have a little movement of my arms, but not much,” said Charlie. “I really didn’t have many prospects for improving my quality of life or accomplishing the personal goals I’ve set. With the Safe Laser System, I am now enrolled in classes at a local Bible college and use the system to write my papers.”
According to Tom Jakobs, president of InvoTek, “The exciting thing about the Safe Laser System is that it is adaptable to a user’s abilities. The user can wear the laser pointer on the head, the hand, or even on a toe. In addition to its use in communicating, we’ve seen people with very little movement improve their range of motion by using the Safe Laser System.”
The Safe Laser System is available through the InvoTek website, www.invotek.org/products, or by calling 479.632.4166.
Founded in 1988, InvoTek specializes in applying technology to the needs of people with severe disabilities. InvoTek also established the Be Extraordinary program in cooperation with the Arkansas Spinal Cord Commission. The program identifies people with severe disabilities who want to accomplish a life goal. The goal can be wide ranging -- improved participation in their health care, access to books, better communication with family or friends, the ability to advocate on their own behalf, or accomplish an educational or vocational goal. Be Extraordinary uses tax-deductible contributions from generous donors to fund the projects.
For more information on InvoTek and the Be Extraordinary program, please visit www.invotek.org or www.facebook.com/invotek.
InvoTek’s Safe Laser System retails for $2,200 or through the AT Passport program at $49.95 per month. Order at www.invotek.org or call 479.632.4166.
Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=6725195&lang=en