QLI’s smart apartment pilot program has flourished since its introduction a few years back. The program offers individuals with traumatic brain or spinal cord injuries the opportunity to engage with a home environment outfitted with the latest and greatest adaptive technology. As the field continues to evolve, QLI takes opportunities to integrate and update the technology available in the smart apartments. QLI is now proud to showcase three new additions.
Smart Fridge
The smart apartments now contain a Samsung Bespoke Family Hub smart refrigerator. Many people who live for a time in one of the apartments have limited hand dexterity. Now a simple touch of the fridge doors opens them up. The lower right section of the fridge can be enabled to either “fridge” or “freezer” settings, making it accessible for those in wheelchairs who may not be able to access items in a traditional layout (fridge in the top half, and a freezer below). Along the front screen of the refrigerator are controls for managing a calendar, utilizing artificial intelligence features to create a grocery list, syncing to a mobile device, fielding phone calls, or displaying text messages.
Smart Stove
Another addition to the kitchen is a Samsung smart stove. Space is available beneath the stovetop counter where a person in a wheelchair can position themselves in proximity to pots and pans on the stove. Above is a pot-filler, allowing for a pot to be filled while in position on the stovetop. This prevents the need for carrying a heavy or unwieldy pot from one location to another. As the stovetop is induction-based, it is adaptable to heating up more slowly (or dependent on the type of pot or pan used), thus lessening a burn risk. Everything is accessible via a surface touch, and a removable magnetic knob can be transferred from burner to burner as an additional heat adjuster.
Vibe Board
The final smart apartment addition is a Vibe board, that serves multiple purposes. It can act as a central hub for video calls or conferencing, function as an internet browser, video content stream video content, or serve as a work station.
Learn more about QLI’s smart apartments.
Categories: Assistive Technology, Smart Apartments