Independence One Version 2
Alpha Testing in Process

Independence One is a web-based EADL system for independent operation of the phone, TV, DVD, CD, lights, fan. It can be used by a seriously disabled person as a bed controller, door opener, intercom system, or in home cameras for surveillance, for instance. All the user needs is access to the Internet, either a computer, or PDA or iphone, for example.

Independence One is truly a state-of-the-art, net centric, modern day Environmental Control Unit/Electronic Aid to Daily Living that embraces current technology to the maximum. While Independence One Version 1 was a major step forward in ECU/EADL technology. We felt we could do better so we teamed up with Next Paradigm Systems, Inc. to produce Version 2.

The goal of Version 2 was to create an ECU/EADL that did NOT require ANY training. This was achieved and then some. The menus are very straightforward, simple and self-explanatory. Part of our demo is to ask someone who has never seen our product to turn on the living room lights. After we convince them we really are not going to give them ANY instructions they walk over and do it with no trouble at all.

Currently, Version 2 is up and running at my home and going into a 6 site Alpha test. The principal difference is that Version 2 is now WEB based on a network appliance that can be accessed wirelessly. This allows any PC on the local LAN to access the control menus. These same menus are also available on the appliance’s touchscreen for access by caregivers and family members. Because of the browser based access we are no longer limited to voice access as in Version 1. Although not just voice control, Version 2 brings voice control to a whole new level.

In the place of discreet single global commands, Version 2 voice control is hierarchical sentences, with only the briefest pause between “buttons”. Two examples: Dons Bedroom, Lights, Lamp, On or Family Room, Cable, Power, By Name, Discovery. Can you guess without documentation what the above two examples do? The hierarchy provides a VERY high level of confidence that what you intend to do is what is really going to happen. With both visual and audio feedback for each “button” or step in the sentence.

The appliance may be accessed with any web browser, (Windows, Macintosh, Linux, PDA or WEB device). We recommend Firefox with the FireVox extension as this gives good vocal feedback and full sightless keyboard/speech navigation. This appliance is truly plug and play; just plug it into the wall and start using it. Your site information is preprogrammed into your device before delivery.

The system has many different peripherals to control the devices around your home. These peripherals can be placed anywhere on the local LAN or be wireless. Available peripherals include: IR-node for IR controlled devices (TV, Cable, Phone, etc.), Bed controller, X10 nodes and Security cameras. Virtually any device that can be controlled electronically can be integrated into this system. For example, our bed controller is a small box that can be fixed to the bottom of the bed. It plugs into the socket for the hand held controller which then plugs into it. That’s it, plug it in and Independence One can fully control your bed, but you would need to crawl under the bed to even see it.

In addition, where requested, we can provide through a secure central site, external access to authorized remote users from anywhere on the Internet. Where again they only require a WEB capable device (PC, PDA, Phone, etc.), a provided URL and security code. The technology we are using has been supporting remote access to Medical Record Systems for many years and meets or exceeds the HIPAA requirements.

The really nice thing about this product is that it can serve any disabled individual that is currently using assistive technology to access a computer. For example, if you are using a computer with row and column scanning and single switch entry via EZ Keys, you merely log that machine onto the appliance, and the control menu appears on your EZ Keys computer, and you are off and running controlling your environment. Literally, any browser access technology is supported in this manner.

Independence One is a complete solution. The Alpha test program includes, installation, training and one year of 24/7 support. This includes two days of on site installing and getting a person comfortable with the system. No one needs to buy an expensive environmental control unit and have it shipped to their home and plopped on their doorstep. No complex manuals and extensive training, if you can (hear or see) and can select a browser button you are already there.

We feel that we have truly covered all bases with this open-ended network based architecture. The implication for remote assistance by caregivers and family is huge. Just think, a disabled individual in a hospital could call the nurse and asked her put their bed head up from the computer at the nurse’s station.

If you would like to discuss Independence One further or try Independence One’s Demo Site please call, I'm always available to chat. Our main number is 800-244-4906 and my direct number is 630-687-1993. I'd like to hear from you.