Kinemo Regain Access to Your Digital Life, Hands-free

Dec 22/Jan 23 Closing The Gap Solutions - Collaborating With Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Users Gains A New Perspective To Best Support Clients By Lydia Dawley

mobility, mounting, seating & positioning

Summary: This article will introduce Kinemo, a wearable hands-free input control solution designed to close the independence gap in digital access for individuals with limited hand function. It will outline current challenges, explain Kinemo’s technology and differentiators, and highlight its benefits through user validation and testimonials. The article will then explore practical implementation steps for clinicians, funding pathways, and future reimbursement opportunities, concluding with a call to expand Kinemo’s reach in rehabilitation settings. Regain Access to Your Digital Life, Hands-free

THE INDEPENDENCE GAP IN DEVICE ACCESS For individuals who have lost hand function, independent access to their digital life is as essential as mobility. It enables communication with loved ones, education, work, entertain- ment, banking, and even home automation. Yet, even the most resourceful users and care teams face persistent challenges:

• Fragmented Control Ecosystems Separate controllers for wheelchairs, computers, and mobile devices create friction, increase costs, and often require caregiver intervention. Switching between control- lers disrupts independence and daily routines. • Outdated Access Methods Traditional access methods such as head arrays, sip- and-puff, push buttons, bite switches, were designed for

DR. NORDINE SEBKHI is an engineer, researcher, and entrepreneur specializing in wearable tech- nology and medical devices. Since beginning his doctoral studies at Georgia Tech, he has pioneered body motion tracking systems for healthcare applications, including non-invasive respiratory monitoring for infants, magnetic-based tongue tracking to enhance speech therapy, and tongue-operated robotic exoskeletons for upper-limb rehabilitation following brain or spinal cord injuries. Dr. Sebkhi is the lead inventor on two patents and has authored over 30 peer-reviewed publications. His work has been showcased at leading conferences, including ASHA, RESNA, ACRM, and IEEE. In recent years, his focus has shifted to the development and commercialization of Kinemo, an inertial sensor- based gesture control system designed to improve digital access for individuals with mobility impairments. As principal investigator on federal, state, and private grants, he has led pilot testing in collaboration with leading rehabilitation centers such as Shepherd Center and Brooks Rehab Center. He has since launched commercial products that has successfully been deployed at more than 20 rehabilitation centers across North America, including at the U.S. Dept of Veterans Affairs. Dr. Sebkhi’s transition to entrepreneurship has been fueled by startup accelerators including Georgia Tech Create-X, MIT The Engine Accelerator, and the NIDILRR-funded IMPACT Center. His mission: empower independence for all by bringing innovative assistive technologies from the lab to the market.

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basic control inputs, not modern digital interaction that require more complex inputs. Also, they lack adaptability to changes in range of motion and demand precise posi- tioning to operate. • Social Stigma Bulky and conspicuous hardware around the head can feel intrusive and stigmatizing. These controllers often draw unwanted attention, limiting natural social interactions and confidence.

swing, or even a toe movement. If you can move it, Kinemo can turn it into control.

At the heart of the system are Kinemo’s tracers which are tiny, fingernail-sized motion sensors that are skin-safe and discreet. Users simply place tracers on any body part with reliable move- ment. Through the Kinemo companion app, these gestures are mapped to desired actions, creating a fully customizable control experience. Kinemo connects seamlessly to digital devices via Bluetooth for smartphones, tablets, and computers, or through a jack cable for specialized assistive equipment.

This is the independence gap Kinemo was created to close.

Two configurations are available:

• Kinemo One (Image 2) A simple, wearable “body switch” that converts one gesture into one discrete command. It is designed to replace traditional physical switches (e.g., jelly bean buttons) with an alternative solution that is wearable and wireless.

Image 2: Kinemo One converting a subtle finger flex into a mouse click.

Image 1: “Unlike my GlassOuse, I can keep Kinemo all day to access my devices. I don’t need to take it off to eat, drink, or speak.” — Brandon F.

• Kinemo Connect (Image 3) An advanced, all-in-one controller that supports propor- tional control (e.g., mouse movement, scrolling, swiping) and up to 18 discrete actions across three body parts. Kinemo Connect enables complex interactions such as drag-and-drop, device switching, and pause control, features rarely available in traditional assistive technolo- gies.

WHAT KINEMO IS Kinemo is a next-generation wearable human-device inter- face that transforms intentional body gestures into digital commands such as mouse clicks, cursor movement, scrolling, or key presses. A gesture can be as subtle as an eyebrow raise or as dynamic as a shoulder shrug, wrist flex, finger twitch, knee

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Image 3: A Kinemo Connect user wearing a head tracer discreetly placed behind the ear for proportional mouse control, paired with a cheek tracer for click activation.

WHY KINEMO MATTERS

WHO BENEFITS MOST? Kinemo is designed for individuals with limited or absent hand function but who retain reliable control over other body parts. Our adaptive technology translates even the smallest intentional gesture into precise digital commands, ensuring consistent digital access across a wide range of conditions: • Tetraplegia & Spinal Cord Injuries For users with minimal mobility below the shoulders, Kinemo leverages remaining function. Our Kinemo tracers placed on the head, face, or shoulders can detect subtle movements, such as head tilts or facial twitches, enabling full device navigation without traditional hand inputs. • Progressive Neurodegenerative Diseases As mobility changes over time, Kinemo evolves with the user’s condition. Kinemo tracers can be repositioned and are highly sensitive to enable the slightest intentional micro-movements to be detected, ensuring uninterrupted access throughout disease progression for those with ALS, Multiple Sclerosis, Muscular Dystrophy, among other neurodegenerative conditions. • Carpal Tunnel & Repetitive Strain Traditional mice, even ergonomic models, often require static wrist postures and repetitive finger clicking that compress the median nerve. Kinemo alleviates this by Image 4: “Kinemo gives me a sense of independence. I can watch TV and check my emails without needing to call my caregiver for help.” - Malcolm M.

UNIFYING INPUT CONTROL Unifying multiple controllers into one wearable system is more than a convenience, it is a breakthrough for inde- pendence. Early technical validation presented at RESNA [1] demonstrated that Kinemo can deliver both proportional and discrete inputs for integrated control of power wheelchairs and digital devices. The goal: eliminate the need for juggling multiple controllers and create a single, seamless method of input. For individuals with high-level paralysis, switching between controllers often requires constant caregiver assistance, reducing autonomy and consuming valuable time. Kinemo addresses this by enabling users to manage mobility and digital access through one discreet, adaptable solution. USER TESTING User testing with the Accessibility User Research Collective (AURC) at Shepherd Center confirmed the impact: participants found wearable sensors far more appealing than bulky physical switches. A single system that supports both wheelchair driving and device access was consistently rated as a major step toward independence [2]. INCONSPICUOUS DESIGN Kinemo’s inconspicuous design matters in classrooms, workplaces, and social settings. Tracers and controllers can be hidden under clothing, making assistive technology virtually invisible. And because gestures can pause control, users never need to remove the system, ensuring comfort and convenience for all-day use.

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replacing high-frequency clicking with natural, low- impact wrist flicks. This keeps the hand in a neutral, relaxed state and removes the primary biomechanical triggers for nerve pain and inflammation. • Arthritis & Joint Inflammation Severe arthritis can make the fine motor tasks of grip- ping a mouse or clicking buttons painful and restrictive. Kinemo offloads these tasks to larger, pain-free joints or muscle groups, allowing users to regain device access without exacerbating joint inflammation or finger stiff- ness. • Upper-Limb Differences & Amputations For individuals born with limb differences or those who have experienced limb loss, Kinemo offers a customizable interface. Because the tracers can be placed anywhere on the body, users can utilize their full range of existing motion to create a control scheme that feels intuitive. • Cerebral Palsy & Ataxia For individuals with involuntary movements or tremors, Kinemo’s adjustable sensitivity and gesture-filtering soft- ware distinguish intentional commands from background spasms, providing a smoother and more stable experi- ence.

Image 6: Accessible: “Attending college will require my son to have a reliable and independent way to access his computer for schoolwork. Kinemo is the solution we were looking for.” - Christy L.

INSIDE THE TECHNOLOGY Kinemo’s tracers are ultra-compact, fingernail-sized motion sensors that can be placed anywhere on the body. They attach securely to the skin or clothing using a snap-in and single- use sticker. Each tracer connects to a lightweight wearable processing unit that captures motion data in real time. This data is analyzed by Kinemo’s proprietary machine learning algorithm, which identifies the unique kinematic patterns of each gesture. Once detected, gestures are translated into human-device interactions (HDIs) such as: • Proportional controls : joystick movement, mouse navi- gation, scrolling • Discrete commands: mouse clicks, finger taps, keystrokes, switch activation The mapping of body gestures to HDIs is customized to the user’s control needs through a Kinemo app companion. HDIs are transmitted wirelessly via Bluetooth for personal devices or through a custom wireless interface for assistive equipment like power wheelchairs and AAC systems.

Image 5: Universality: “Kinemo works with whatever movement I have, not just head motion. I haven’t used any other devices with that level of universality.” - Keith P.

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By consolidating all gesture-based controls into one system, Kinemo unlocks advanced capabilities rarely possible with traditional controllers. For example: • Swiping & Scrolling: Achieved with just two tracers, one for proportional control and one for a quick “hold” gesture. • Drag-and-drop: Also performed with just two Kinemo tracers: one proportional control and one discrete gesture for a sustained “hold”. Drag-and-drop is notoriously chal- lenging, or even impossible to perform, for most alterna- tive controllers. • Multi-device switching: One discrete gesture can be used to autonomously select which device to control without caregiver intervention. These features make Kinemo controllers not only a replace- ment for existing access methods but a leap forward in func- tionality and independence. A TECHNOLOGY BUILT WITH USERS Early technical validation was completed in a three-session study to train new users in digital device controls and wheel- chair driving, then integrating both inside a home environment for activities of daily living. The main objective of the study was to confirm safe indoor driving and effective multidevice control

using head motion and facial gestures as input control. More information can be found in this RESNA paper [1].

Image 7. Participant using Kinemo to control a smart TV via his smartphone, demonstrating seamless multi-device integration.

User testing was completed in collaboration with the Accessibility User Research Collective (AURC) at Shepherd Center (Atlanta, GA). This feasibility study evaluated whether the Kinemo controller enhances independence in digital access and power wheelchair driving for individuals with tetraplegia. Four male outpatients (ages 25–64) with spinal cord injuries

YouTube Video - Demo of basic use cases of Kinemo controllers for digital control. https://youtu.be/uA8r39jlczQ

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Image 8. Participant using Kinemo to open a smart door and navigate a power wheelchair to the bedroom, demonstrating integrated environmental and mobility control.

were recruited from Shepherd Center and used Kinemo at home for six weeks to perform personalized digital tasks. Kine- mo’s flexibility to map diverse body movements for control was highlighted as a unique advantage, enabling participants to use underutilized muscles like shoulders, which may support phys- ical therapy benefits. Caregivers rated setup as very easy (4.8/5), and participants preferred Kinemo over current alternatives (e.g., GlassOuse) due to better durability and comfort. Digital control proficiency improved significantly, with successful task completion rising from 38% pre-study to 67% post-study, and perceived ease reaching 4.8/5. For wheelchair control, subjects achieved high proficiency (1.5/2) and ease of driving (4.7/5), reporting improved posture and reduced discomfort compared to traditional systems. Overall, Kinemo demonstrated strong potential to improve accessibility and user satisfaction. More information can be found in the Shepherd Center’s press release about this study [2]. USER TESTIMONIAL: KINEMO HELPED A LAWYER PRACTICING LAW AGAIN Atlanta attorney Earle Burke shared how Kinemo trans- formed his ability to resume practicing law after a spinal cord injury left him with complete tetraplegia. Before Kinemo, Earle relied on a GlassOuse bite switch, a device that requires users to

bite down to click, which made it nearly impossible for him to speak clearly during court proceedings. This limitation severely impacted his ability to communicate with judges and opposing counsel, a critical aspect of his profession. Switching to Kinemo was a game-changer. Using Kinemo’s wearable tracers, Earle leveraged a faint index finger twitch for YouTube Video - Study participant using Kinemo to drive a power wheelchair within a home environment, demonstrating safe and precise mobility control through gesture-based input. https://youtube.com/shorts/WdvTtEmcQB8

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WHAT USERS CAN ACTUALLY DO WITH KINEMO Users often ask: “Can I actually do what matters to me?”The answer is almost always yes. Kinemo enables control of a wide range of devices without requiring specialized software: • Personal Devices: Navigate your computer, tablet, or smartphone with ease. Move the cursor, click, scroll, swipe, and perform advanced actions (e.g., copy/paste, zoom). For users who cannot control a pointer, Kinemo supports full device access through Switch Access using a body gesture. • Augmented & Alternative Communication (AAC): Kinemo works seamlessly with AAC software on Windows tablets or iPads, offering the same advanced controls as personal devices. For dedicated AAC hardware, Kinemo can replace dwell-click or physical switches, improving speed and comfort. • Attendant Call Systems: Trigger caregiver/nurse alerts with a simple gesture, whether at home or in a hospital bed. Kinemo replaces sip-and-puff or bed-mounted switches, reducing false alarms and ensuring reliable operation. • Power Wheelchairs: Control essential wheelchair func- tions such as tilt for pressure relief, speed adjustments, and power on/off, all through intuitive body gestures. • Gaming: Connect Kinemo to an Xbox Adaptive Controller or PlayStation Access Controller to map gestures to game controls, opening up new possibilities for adaptive gaming. CLINICIAN’S PLAYBOOK FOR IMPLEMENTATION 1. Select Body Gestures Begin with a functional assessment of the user’s mobility. Identify body parts that can produce consistent and inten- tional movement without causing fatigue. • For Kinemo One, choose one reliable gesture. • For Kinemo Connect, select one proportional gesture (if available) and up to three discrete gestures. 2. Configure Gesture Detection Adjust sensitivity settings to filter out unintended move- ments. Kinemo devices allow quick caregiver adjustments as range of motion or fatigue changes throughout the day. Gesture speed can also be fine-tuned to balance detection accuracy with responsiveness.

left-clicking and shoulder shrugs for right-clicking and pausing input when he needed to speak. This setup allowed him to navigate legal documents seamlessly on his laptop while main- taining clear communication during arguments. Earle’s experience highlights a key insight: accessibility is not just about “Can I click?”, it is about “How can I click?” . In professional and social contexts, appearance, communication, and confidence matter. Kinemo empowers users to maintain dignity, efficiency, and independence, even in high-stakes envi- ronments. YouTube Video - Caregiver demonstrating Kinemo’s quick and intuitive setup process. https://youtube.com/shorts/GHc_NDO1bgM

Image 9. Game-changing: “Kinemo was a game-changer for me to practice law. Because I don’t have a bite switch in my mouth to control my laptop, I can freely move between consulting my legal documents while arguing my motion to the judge.” — Earle B.

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• Advocacy Groups & Assistive Tech Centers Advocacy groups and donor-backed assistive tech centers can offer grants or partial funding. For personalized guidance, the Assistive Tech Act center in your state can be a helpful starting point for care teams navi- gating local funding options, or contact the Kinemo team to help identify the best funding sources for your situation. Kinemo is actively pursuing reimbursement pathways. Soon, Kinemo devices will qualify for coverage when used with adap- tive equipment such as AAC systems, attendant call systems, and power wheelchairs. Sign up on our website to receive updates on new funding and reimbursement opportunities. JOIN US IN EXPANDING ACCESS We’re actively partnering with rehabilitation centers to bring Kinemo to more patients. If you know a clinician who could benefit from Kinemo, please connect with us through our contact form. Your referral can help someone regain indepen- dence and improve their quality of life. If you are a user interested in learning how Kinemo can support your daily digital activities, reach out today to schedule a free evaluation. Our team will guide you through the process and help you discover the best setup for your needs. REFERENCES Sebkhi, N., et al., Technical validation of Kinemo, a wearable alternative controller for smart control and power wheelchair driving, in RESNA Conference. 2023, RESNA: New Orleans, LA.

Coming soon: An AI-driven configuration feature will auto- mate these adjustments, further simplifying setup for new patients. 3. Assign Actions to Gestures Start by listing essential digital tasks for the user, then select a set of human-device interactions to accomplish these tasks. Refine the selection of interactions by considering the user’s gesture capabilities. Use the Kinemo companion app to assign each interaction to a gesture. • For Bluetooth devices , options include mouse control, clicks (left, right, middle), and keyboard keys. • For jack-enabled adaptive equipment , actions are limited to short switch (e.g., for click or select) and long switch emulation (e.g., wheelchair functions). 4. Configure User’s Target Devices Basic actions like cursor movement and clicks require minimal setup. Enable AssistiveTouch on iOS or Single-Click to open items on Windows. For advanced customization, configure Switch Access on iOS/Android or use automation tools like AutoHotKey on Windows. 5. Adapt Setup to Physical Changes Kinemo is designed to evolve with the user. If a gesture becomes difficult, simply reposition the tracer to another body part with remaining mobility. Kinemo adapts to the user, not the other way around. FUNDING PATHWAYS While private insurance typically does not cover assistive technology for general consumer devices (e.g., smartphones, tablets, computers), several programs can help offset costs: • Veterans Affairs VA centers fully cover the cost of Kinemo devices for veterans. • Workers’ Compensation Kinemo devices are fully covered for individuals under the care of Workers’ Compensation. • Vocational Rehabilitation Services If Kinemo supports return-to-work goals, funding is often available through state vocational rehabilitation programs. • Educational & Disability Programs Many developmental disability programs provide funding for students who need assistive technology for school.

Kenney, E., Shepherd Center Partners with Kinemo for Assistive Technology Testing, S. Center, Editor. 2025.

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