Disability the mother of invention
The New Inventors host James O'Loghlin with Audio-Read inventors, Warren Lesnie and Anthony Blackwood.
With technological advances revolutionising many aspects of everyday life it's no surprise that a number of the nation's creative minds are turning their attention to new assistive devices for people with a disability. Two such inventions stole the limelight recently on ABC TV's The New Inventors.
Audio-Read opens a new chapter in access
Three years ago retired engineer, Warren Lesnie, set about finding a way for his mother-in-law - a newspaper 'junkie' who had lost her sight - to enjoy the daily news. It was a task that would see Warren and friend, Tony Blackwood, team up to become two of Australia 's newest inventors.
The pair's ingenious creation, Audio-Read, is now set to open the world of print to people with a vision impairment - and anyone else who finds hard copy publications difficult to access.
The hand held device provides fast access to narration of up to 400 books, newspapers or magazines in a structured format. The 'reader' can skip between sections and bookmark different places within each publication.
Paralympian and inventor , Nick Morris with the Vulcan Wheel
The invention is currently being trialed by the Queensland Narrating Service and the Royal Blind Foundation.
For more information about Audio Read or to get involved in the trial, phone Gerrard Gosens at the Royal Blind Foundation on 3391 9191 or email: ggosens@rbf.org.au
This wheel's revolutionary
It's a simple idea but one that could give wheelchair users greater control and better traction at a competitive price. Vulcan Wheels took out the prize on their segment of the New Inventors with a wheelchair wheel that features an 'all in one' wheel and push (or grip) rim.
By manufacturing the wheel and rim as one piece the company has created a design that is not only lighter than a conventional wheel, but also delivers an increased area for contact between the hand and the rim, better braking and a smooth ergonomic design.
For more information visit the Vulcan Wheels website at www.vulcanwheels.comor call 1800 250 141.Last updated November 2007