KEY POINTS:
A unique computer keyboard for the disabled has won its New Zealand designers a coveted gold award at the 2007 International Design Excellence Awards (IDEA).
The LOMAK keyboard is operated by a head-mounted or hand-operated laser and allows people with disabilities to navigate the internet, type at 20 words per minute, and achieve or maintain their independence.
The IDEA program fosters business and public understanding of the impact of industrial design on the quality of life and the economy.
Previous winners include Apple, HP and Logitech.
The gold IDEA in the Computer Equipment category has been awarded to local design company peterhaythornthwaite//creativelab for the design of LOMAK (light operated mouse and keyboard).
"This award recognises the skills, passion and vision of a talented team of people" says design principal Peter Haythornthwaite.
"Our designers worked with inventor Mike Watling and engineers to create a system that has a profound effect on the lives of people with disabilities."
Opdo CEO, Chris Mulcare, says LOMAK is transforming customers' lives.
"LOMAK users develop a whole new outlook on life - they can email friends, remain productive in the workplace, join MySpace, sell things on Trade Me - the things anyone with a computer and an internet connection takes for granted. At school or university, LOMAK means having the same opportunities as other students."
LOMAK users range in age from 7 to 78 years old and have a range of disabilities including multiple sclerosis, motor neurone disease, spinal muscular atrophy, cerebral palsy, quadriplegia, arthritis and repetitive strain injury.
Trade Me's Sam Morgan recently invested in Opdo and has joined the board of directors.
- NZ HERALD STAFF
