REPUBLIC OF CAMEROON REPUBLIQUE DU CAMEROUN
Peace – Work – Fatherland Paix – Travail – Patrie
MINISTRY OF HIGHER EDUCATION MINISTERE DE
L’ENSEIGNEMENT SUPERIEUR
THE UNIVERSITY OF BAMENDA L’UNIVERSITE DE BAMENDA
P.O. Box 39, Bambili B.P. 39, Bambili
Fax (237) 233 366 030 – Website: Fax: (237) 233 366 030 – Website:
[Link] [Link]
National Higher Polytechnic Institute Ecole Nationale Superieure
(NAHPI) Polytechnique (ENSP)
(School of Engineering) (Ecole d’Ingenieurs)
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING
COURSE TITLE: EXPLORATORY PROJECT I
COURSE CODE: EEEE3103
GROUP 4
SN NAME MATRICULE
1 FONCHAM ROSY NUNG UBa23E0327
2 FUMBIA CEDRICK NGWETONG UBa23E0329
3 GHAMOGHA PRINCELY UBa23E0330
NYUYSENI
4 KINYI ALAIN PIERRE UBa23E0334
PROJECT: HANDICAP SWITCH
DATE OF SUBMISSION: 14th OF JANUARY 2025
INSTRUCTOR:
Engr.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1
1.1 INTRODUCTION
1.2 BACKGROUND AND CONTEXT (PROBLEM STATEMENT)
Individuals with physical disabilities, such as those with quadriplegia, muscular dystrophy, or
amputations, often face significant challenges in their daily lives. One of the most basic yet
essential tasks, turning lights on and off can become a daunting obstacle. Traditional light switches
require manual operation, which can be impossible for those without functional limbs.
While there are some assistive technologies available such as voice-controlled systems or mouth-
operated switches.
The handicap switch is an innovative, breath-activated switch designed to empower individuals
with severe physical disabilities. By harnessing the user’s breath, handicap switch provides a
reliable, hands-free solution for controlling lights.
The handicap switch specifically aims to address the challenge of independent light control for
individuals with severe physical disabilities, particularly those without functional limbs or hands
providing a reliable hands-free and east-to-use solution for turning lights on and off
1.2 PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES
The purpose of the handicap switch project is to design, develop and test a breath-activated switch
that enables individuals with severe physical abilities to control their lighting environment
independently.
Objectives:
1. Design and Development: Design a develop a functional handicap switch prototype that
can detect and respond to user breath patterns.
2. Usability and Accessibility: Ensure, the handicap switch is user-friendly, intuitive and
accessible for individuals with severe physical abilities
3. Reliability and Efficiency: Optimize the handicap switch’s performance, reliability and
efficiency in controlling lighting systems
4. User Testing and feedback: Conduct user testing and gather feedback to refine the
handicap switch design and improve its overall effectiveness
5. Improving Quality of life: Enhance the independence, autonomy and quality of life for
individuals with severe physical disabilities through the handicap switch technology.
OVERVIEW OF THE PROJECT
Project title: Design and development of a handicap switch for individuals with severe
physical disabilities
Background: Individuals with severe physical disabilities face significant challenges in
controlling their environment, leading to loss of independence, autonomy and quality of
life.
Problem Statement: Existing assistive technologies, such as mouth-operated switches and
voice-controlled systems, have limitations that make them inaccessible or unusable for
individuals with severe physical disabilities.
Objective: To design and develop a breath-activated switch (Handicap Switch) that
provides an accessible, usable and adaptable solution for individuals with severe physical
disabilities to control their lighting environment
Methodology: The project employs a user-centered design approach, utilizing the
Human0centered Design (HCD) methodology. The design process involves empathy,
definition, ideation, prototyping and testing.
Expected outcomes:
1. A functional prototype of handicap switch
2. Evaluation of the handicap switch’s effectiveness in improving independence,
autonomy and quality of life for individuals with severe physical disabilities
3. Identification of arear for improvement and future development
Chapter overview
• Chapter 1: Introduction to the problem statement, objective and background
• Chapter 2: Literature review of existing assistive technologies and their limitations
• Chapter 3: Methodology and presentation of the handicap switch prototype
• Chapter 4: Presentation of results, discussions and conclusion
CHAPTER 2
2.1 LITERATURE REVIEW
The development of assistive technologies has significantly improved the lives of people with
disabilities, enabling them to participate more fully in society. However, despite these advances,
many individuals with severe physical disabilities continue to face significant barriers in their daily
lives. One critical area where these barriers persist is in the control of their environment,
particularly in the simple yet essential task of turning lights on and off.
The literature review aims to provide an overview of the current state of assistive technologies for
people with disabilities, with a focus on solutions that enable environmental control. By examining
the strengths and limitations of existing technologies, this revies will identify gaps in the market
and highlight the need for innovative solutions like handicap switch.
2.1.1 Assistive Technologies for People with Disabilities
Assistive technologies have revolutionized the lives of people with disabilities enabling them to
participate more fully in the society. These technologies can be broadly categorized into several
types each addressing specific needs and disabilities
1. Voice-controlled systems: Voice-controlled systems such as voice assistants (e.g Alexa,
Google Assistant) enable users to control devices using voice commands. These systems
have improved significantly in recent years, offering greater accuracy and functionality.
2. Mouth-operated switches: Mouth-operated switches such as sip-and-puff systems, allow
users to control devices using breath or mouth movements. These switches ae commonly
used for individuals with severe physical disabilities
3. Eye-tracking system: Eye-tracking systems are cameras and algorithms to track eye
movements, enabling users to control devices with their gaze. These systems are often used
for individuals with severe physical disabilities or those who are unable to use traditional
input devices
4. Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs): BCIs enable users to control devices using brain
signals often detected through electroencephalography (EEG) or other technologies. BCIs
have the potential to revolutionize assistive technologies but they are still in the early stages
of development
Other assistive technologies such as prosthetic limbs wheelchairs, and communications aids,
also play critical roles in enabling individuals with disabilities to participate fully in the society
2.1.2 Limitations and Challenges
While assistive technologies have revolutionized the lives of people with disabilities, they are not
without limitations and challenges. Some of the key limitations and challenges include:
1. Accessibility and usability: Many assistive technologies are not accessible or usable for
individuals with severe physical disabilities. For example, voice-controlled system may not
work for individuals with speech impairments while eye-systems may not work for
individuals with eye impairments
2. Cost and Affordability: Assistive technologies can be expensive making them
inaccessible to many individuals with disabilities.
3. Complexity and Customization: Assistive technologies can be complex and difficult to
customize requiring significant expertise. This can make it difficult for individuals with
disabilities to use these technologies effectively
4. Dependence on external devices: Many assistive technologies rely on external devices or
infrastructure such as internet connectivity or specialized hardware. This can limit their
effectiveness in certain situations or environments
2.1.3 Gap in The Market: The Need for A Handicap Switch:
Despite the advancements of assistive technologies, there remains a significant gap in the market
for a solution that addresses the needs of individuals with severe physical disabilities. Handicap
switch aims to fill this gap by providing a breath-activated switch that enables individuals to control
their lighting environment independently.
1. Unmet needs for individuals with severe physical disabilities
Individuals with severe physical disabilities such as those with muscular dystrophy
often face significant challenges in controlling their environment. Existing assistive
technologies My not be accessible or usable for these individuals, leaving them reliant
on caregivers or family members for basic tasks
2. Limitations of existing solutions
Existing solutions such as voice-controlled systems or mouth-operated switches may
not be suitable for individuals with speech impairments, while mouth-operated switches
may not work for individuals with limited mouth mobility
3. The potential of handicap switch
Handicap switch has the potential to address the unmet needs of individuals with severe
physical disabilities by providing a breath-activated switch that is accessible, usable and
adaptable. By enabling individuals to control their lighting environment independently,
handicap switch can promote autonomy, dignity, and quality of life.
2.1.4 Summary
This literature review has highlighted the importance of assistive technologies in promoting
independence and autonomy for individuals with disabilities. The review has identified a gap in the
market for a solution that addresses the specific needs of individuals with severe physical
disabilities, Handicap switch (a breath-activated switch) has the potential to fill this gap by
providing an adaptable solution for controlling lighting environments. The finding of thus literature
review will inform the development of handicap switch ensuring that it meets the needs and
expectations of its target users.
CHAPTER 3
3.1 METHODOLOGY AND PRSENTATION OF PROTOTYPE
The handicap switch was developed using a user-centered design (HCD) methodology. This
involved empathy, definition, ideation, prototyping and testing to create a solution that meets the
needs of individuals with severe physical disabilities.
The resulting prototype is a compact, portable, and easy-to-use breath-activated device that enables
users to control their lighting environment, providing a simple and intuitive user interphase.
3.1.1 DESIGN APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY
The handicap switch project utilized a user centered design approach, specifically employing the
Human-Centered-Design (HCD) methodology. This approach focuses on understanding the user’s
needs and experiences throughout the design process, ensuring the final product is both accessible
and effective for individuals with severe physical disabilities.
I. Key Principle and Stages
The HCD methodology encompasses several key principles and stages that guide the design
process:
Empathize: This initial stage involves conducting thorough research to gain insights into the
experiences of individuals with disabilities. By understanding their challenges, preferences and
environments, designers can create solutions that genuinely address their needs.
Define In this stage, the problem statement is articulated clearly. Key requirements for the design
are identified, alongside constraints such as technical limitations, safety standards, and user
preferences. This clarity guides the subsequent stages of the design process.
Ideate: The ideation phase focuses on brainstorming and generating a diverse array of ideas and
concepts for the handicap switch. Various techniques such as mind mapping and sketching are
employed to explore innovative solutions that cater to the specific needs identified during the
empathize and define stages.
Prototype: Building a functional prototype is crucial in the design process This prototype
incorporates user feedback collected throughout the earlier stages. It allows designers to iterate on
the design, making adjustments based on usability and functional tests.
Test: Finally, the testing phase involves user evaluations to validate the design. This includes
observing users interacting with the prototype, gathering feedback and identifying areas for
improvement. Continuous testing ensures that the final product is user-friendly and effective in its
application.
II. Insights from Observations
In the context of the handicap switch project, we observed at an orphanage some children who were
on wheelchairs and faced significant mobility challenges. Notably, some children were unable to
move their hands, highlighting a critical need for alternative control methods.
During this observation, we identified that a breath-controlled switch could be a viable solution for
these children. This technology allows users to control devices through breath patterns, providing
an accessible means of interaction for individuals with limited mobility.
The insights gained from these observations were pivotal in shaping the design of the handicap
switch. They emphasized the necessity of creating a device that not only meets functional
requirements but also enhances the quality of life for users by promoting independence and
accessibility.
III. Rationale for Methodology Choice
The Human-Centered Design methodology was carefully chosen for this project due to its
structured approach to understanding user needs and developing tailored solutions. By prioritizing
the experiences and feedback of users, the methodology ensures that the handicap switch is
designed with empathy and consideration for its intended audience.
The approach fosters an iterative design process, allowing for continuous refinements and
improvement based on real-world interactions. The ultimate goal is to create a solution that is not
only accessible but also engaging and empowering for individuals with disabilities, thereby
enhancing their daily lives.
3.1.2 PRESENTATION OF PROTOTYPE
I. Overview of the Prototype
The handicap switch is a breath-controlled device designed for individuals with severe physical
disabilities. The device enables users to control a switch using their breath
On/Off Control: When the user blows into the device (handicap switch), the switch turns on
Toggle function: When the user blows into the device again, the switch turns off
Key Features:
1. Breath-controlled interface
2. Simple and intuitive operation
3. Toggle functionality for easy on/off control
II. Design Requirements (Components of the prototype)
1. 1.5mm2 Conductor (Live and Neutral wires)
Description: A 1.5mm2 conductor is type of electrical wire used for connecting various circuit
components. It consists of a live wire (Red) and a neutral wire (Blue)
Function: The conductor is used to link the various circuit connections, enabling the flow of
electrical current between components
Specification: The conductor is 1.5mm2 in size, suitable for low-voltage applications and meets
relevant electrical safety standards
2. Designed Handicap Switch
Description: The designed handicap switch is a custom-made switch tailored for individuals with
disabilities. It is incorporated with a tele-switch for control of the circuit
Function: The handicap switch enables users to control the circuit, turning it on or off using a tele-
switch
Specification: The switch is designed to be accessible and easy to use, with a tele-switch interface
that meets relevant accessibility standards
3. Clips
Description: Clips are used to hold the conductors firmly in place, ensuring secure connections
and preventing damage to the wires
Function: The clips provide mechanical support and strain relief for the conductors, keeping them
organized and secure
Specification: The clips are designed to accommodate 1.5mm2 conductors, made of durable
materials and meet relevant electrical standards
4. Screws
Description: Screws are used to mount the lighting points and other components firmly to the
board or other surfaces
Function: Screws provide mechanical fastening, securing components in place
Specification: The screws are made of durable materials, suitable for electrical applications and
meet relevant safety standards
5. Lamps and Lamp holders
Description: Lamps are used for signaling the circuit is functioning, providing visual indication
of the circuit’s status and lamp holders are used to hold the lamps in place, providing a secure and
stable mounting solution
Function: The lamps provide a visual indication of the circuit’s status, enabling users to monitor
the circuit’s functionality and lamp holders provide mechanical support and strain relief for the
lamps.
Specification: The lamps are designed to meet relevant electrical safety standards, suitable for
low voltage applications and provide a clear and visible indication of the circuit’s status. The
lamp holders are designed to accommodate the lamps, made of durable materials and meet
relevant electrical safety standards
6. Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB)
Description: The MCB is used for protection of the circuit, providing automatic disconnection in
case of an overload or short circuit
Function: The MCB provides electrical protection, preventing damage to the circuit and ensuring
user safety
Specification: The MCB is suitable for low voltage applications, and provides automatic
disconnection in case of an overload or short circuit
7. Board
Description: The Board is used to mount all the circuit components, providing a secure
and stable platform for the circuit
Function: The Board provides mechanical support and strain relief for the circuit components,
keeping them secure and stable
Specification: The Board is designed to accommodate all the circuit components made of durable
material (wood which is a good insulator) and meet relevant electrical safety standards
8. Conduit cup:
Description: The conduit cup is used to house the handicap switch
Function: Provides secure and protective enclosure
Specification: Made of durable material and meets its relevant electrical safety standards
9. Junction box
Description: The junction box is an electrical enclosure that houses and protects electrical
connections
Function: Provides mechanical protection and the connection of the conductors secure and stable
keeping the board clean of crossing cables.
Specification: Suitable for low voltage applications and provides a secure and protective
enclosure
• Wiring tools
Screw drivers and Pliers
III. Circuit Diagram
IV. Design Process
• Conception and Planning
After conceiving the idea of wiring a handicap switch light for those with non-functioning hands,
a detailed layout and wiring diagram was created. This diagram served as a guide for connecting
the circuit and enables seamless replication of the project
We developed a comprehensive layout diagram to facilitate easy understanding of the circuit
apparatus on the wiring board. The diagram provided a clear visual representation of the
connections, ensuring successful operation of the circuit.
Following the completion of the diagrams, the necessary materials were acquired including:
• A mounting board for securing circuit components
• A miniature circuit breaker for overload and short-circuit protection
• Clips for securing conductors
• Screw for fastening components to the board
• Cables for linking circuit parts
• Indicator lamps for circuit status
• Lamp holders for securing lamps
• A conduit cup for housing the handicap switch
• A junction box for protecting and organizing electrical connections
• A Handicap switch was placed in the conduit cup for proper working
With all these connections put in place, we had a perfectly working circuit
Operation of the handicap switch
When air is blown into the switch, it activates the contact, energizing the tele-switch coil and the
lamps illuminate. When air is blown into the switch again, the contact returns to its normal state,
energizing the tele-switch coil and the lamps go off.
CHAPTER 4
4.1 PRESENTATION O RESULTS, DISCUSSIONS AND CONCLUSION
This chapter presents the results of the Handicap Switch Project, discussing the findings,
advantages, limitations and challenges encountered. The project aimed to design and develop a
breath-controlled switch for individuals with severe physical disabilities, promoting independence
and autonomy. This chapter summarizes the key outcomes, analyzes the implications and provides
recommendations for future improvements and applications.
4.1.1 Presentation of Results
User Requirements
The system should be easy to install with clear instructions and minimal technical
expertise required
The handicap switch should be simple to operate with intuitive controls and clear
indications of system status
The system should be reliable and functional with minimal downtime or errors.
The system should prioritize user safety with protection against electrical shock or
other hazards
i. Design Constraints
The system should be designed to be compact and space-efficient. Materials
should be selected for durability, safety and easy use.
The system should be designed to be cost-effective with minimal waste and
optimized use of materials. The board should be designed to carry all circuit
components safely and efficiently
3.1.3 Design process
3.1.4 Technical development (information)
3.1.5 Testing and Iteration (information)
