Gupta and Padmanabha used existing hardware components, but had to solder them together to create the prototype and developed the code from scratch. The HAT interface controlled a commercially available robot called Stretch, which is more often used via a computer screen.

Evans appreciated that he was able to perform tasks, such as eating, without a computer right in front of his face. His favorite feature of the HAT device was the "assisted driving" feature, in which the technology is able to figure out how to grasp objects without explicit direction from the user. It's a feature that Evans hopes will be incorporated into other assistive devices.

"Technology in this area is moving very quickly and it is exciting to be a part of it," he said in an email.

Evans also provided them with feedback to improve the performance of HAT, such as allowing the device to record sequences of movements and play them back. Such technologies are essential for his well-being, he said.

"My quality of life is definitely positively correlated with increased independence," he said via email. "Without technology, I would be lying in bed waiting to die."

Gupta and Padmanabha don't have active plans to commercialize the HAT device, but have heard from other researchers who are interested in incorporating some of their work.

Both of them plan to focus their careers in the development of health care technology.

"This helped me cement that interest," said Gupta. "A lot of times, when you are taking classes, you don't know how it could actually impact people."

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