Laser Headset Prototype [LOMAK]
Maker and role
Mike Watling, Inventor
Mike Watling, Maker
Production date
1998
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Object detail
Accession number
2021.48.18
Maker
Production period
Description
LOMAK laser headset prototype. Black fabric headband with a small metal laser attached to one side. Attached to the end of the laser is a grey cable which connects to a small, square, black plastic box. Four white circles of velcro are attached to one side of the box. On one edge of the box is a small circular yellow push button and a small round metal attachment.
Brief History
This prototype laser headset was made by Mike Watling in 1998 and used during testing of the prototype LOMAK keyboards made at AUT (Auckland University of Technology) in 2002. A small laser is mounted on the side of a headband and is powered by a battery unit attached by a cable. The first prototype didn’t include an option for hand control and in this prototype, Watling introduced a holder for the laser on the battery unit, so that the laser could be controlled either from the head or by hand depending on the user. The beam of light from the laser activates sensors in the keyboard.
The LOMAK (Light Operated Mouse and Keyboard) is an assistive technology device developed in New Zealand for people with a physical disability who cannot use a standard computer keyboard or mouse.
The LOMAK (Light Operated Mouse and Keyboard) is an assistive technology device developed in New Zealand for people with a physical disability who cannot use a standard computer keyboard or mouse.
Media/Materials
Record level
Object Parts
Collection
Credit Line
Mike Watling et al. 1998. Laser Headset Prototype [LOMAK], 2021.48.18. The Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT).
![Light Operated Mouse and Keyboard [LOMAK]; Mike Watling](https://collection.motat.nz/records/images/medium/57362/80bf0762f9a18d87ba01ac1bd0443524ac2e4553.jpg)
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