In 2019, Fjord, Intel & The Scott-Morgan Foundation redesigned ACAT, an assistive toolkit for MND patients, originally created for Stephen Hawking. By integrating new technologies such as speech-bank based voice synthesis, AI predictive text and 3D avatars, we aimed to create an assistive system which retains the users human traits of 'personality & verbal spontaneity'.
We worked closely with super-scientist Dr. Peter Scott-Morgan, who was diagnosed with MND in 2017. Peter is harnessing technology to help him ā and other people with extreme disabilities ā live an enhanced life. He now uses ACAT 2.0 as his primary means of communication.
I worked in a small cross-disciplinary team over five months. We started by conducting research sessions at Peters home & with the brilliant team of speech therapists and carers at the Royal Hospital for Neuro-Disability in Putney.
We then worked collaboratively to map out new features, requirements and design considerations for ACAT. My main responsibility was prototyping new circular keyboard designs & testing them with Peter. I also implemented a series of new features into ACAT, such as an emergency alarm and easy-access name book.
Peter: The Human Cyborg - Channel 4 Documentary
Future Impact Pencil Winner 2020 - D&AD āļø
Iām dealing with motor neurone disease by becoming a cyborg - The Sunday Times