Global First to Empower People with Disabilities: The Scott-Morgan Foundation Debuts Hyper-Realistic AI Avatar, Predictive LLM, Smart Wheelchair, Multimodal Communication Platform, Tongue-Operated Touchpad & EarSwitch Biometric Controls
THE SCOTT-MORGAN FOUNDATION | Jan. 8, 2024
Media Contact: LaVonne Roberts lavonne@scottmorganfoundation.org
On Jan. 9, The Scott-Morgan Foundation will unveil global firsts in assistive technology for people living with disabilities at Showstoppers CES 2024, including:
Hyper-realistic, AI-powered avatar from DeepBrain AI and Lenovo
On-device, personal LLM for predictive, generative AI from Lenovo
Eye-gaze tracking and AAC communication platform converging multimodal inputs, including eye tracking, ear, tongue, and wheelchair controls from IRISBOND
Smart independent mobility platform from LUCI Mobility
Circular keyboard all under an intuitive User Interface design from The Scott-Morgan Foundation
In-ear biometric control technology from EarSwitch
Tongue-operated, hands-free touchpad from Augmental
By addressing the intensive needs of people with severe disabilities—especially ALS, a neurodegenerative disease—the Scott-Morgan Foundation and their collaborators set out to solve some of assistive technology's greatest challenges to
unlock new independence for millions living with disabilities worldwide.
The work evolved with Erin Taylor, 24, recently diagnosed with ALS. Despite disease progression, Erin helps test technologies to preserve independence. Her groundbreaking avatar serves as a virtual stand-in, capturing 96% visual/audible similarity.
Currently, 2.5 billion people need assistive technology worldwide. By 2050, this number will reach 3.5 billion. By showcasing innovations that address severe disability needs, the Foundation spotlights possibilities for inclusive tech.
At Showstoppers, attendees can watch Erin’s avatar use IRISBOND’s platform to articulate text live. Video clips and additional details will be in our online Press Kit HERE post-event for those not attending. Erin will be available for interviews on her vital role in this assistive technology project.
The Scott-Morgan Foundation is taking a patient-first approach by collaborating with pioneering researcher Dr. David Putrino and Dr. Abbey Sawyer of The Abilities Research Center at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai to optimize this platform's real-world impact for people with disabilities.
With mobility and communication abilities hampered by severe disabilities, many are unable to interact with the outside world. Isolation negatively impacts safety, health, and quality of life. By presenting what’s possible through Erin’s story, the Foundation hopes to drive awareness, spark innovation, and democratize assistive technologies for all who need them.
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