New camera-based microswitch technology to monitor small head and mouth responses of children with multiple disabilities.

Objective: Assessing a new camera-based microswitch technology, which did not require the use of color marks on the participants' face.

Method: Two children with extensive multiple disabilities participated. The responses selected for them consisted of small, lateral head movements and mouth closing or opening. The intervention was carried out according to a multiple probe design across responses. The technology involved a computer with a CPU using a 2-GHz clock, a USB video camera with a 16-mm lens, a USB cable connecting the camera and the computer, and a special software program written in ISO C++ language.

Results: The new technology was satisfactorily used with both children. Large increases in their responding were observed during the intervention periods (i.e. when the responses were followed by preferred stimulation).

Conclusion: The new technology may be an important resource for persons with multiple disabilities and minimal motor behavior.