Problem: People with mobility disabilities face significant challenges in controlling their wheelchairs, particularly if they have limited upper body mobility. Current control systems, such as joystick controls, can be difficult to operate and require a high degree of fine motor control. There is a need for a more intuitive and natural control system that can be operated by users with limited upper body mobility, such as a system that can be controlled through head movement. However, developing such a system presents a number of challenges, including designing a reliable and accurate control system that can translate the user's head movements into precise and responsive wheelchair movements, ensuring the system is user-friendly and easy to learn, and ensuring the wheelchair is safe and stable. The problem statement for this project, therefore, is to design and develop an electric wheelchair that can be controlled through head movement, to provide greater independence and mobility to people with limited upper body mobility.
Purpose: Developing an electric wheelchair that can be controlled through the movement of one's head would be a significant boon for people with mobility disabilities. This type of technology would allow individuals with limited upper body mobility to move their wheelchair with greater ease and independence, without needing to use their hands or arms. The head-controlled electric wheelchair would provide a more natural and intuitive interface for controlling the wheelchair, as users can move their head in the direction they want to go, making it easier for them to navigate through crowded spaces, avoid obstacles and reach their desired destination. This technology has the potential to greatly enhance the quality of life for people with mobility impairments, allowing them to move around more easily, engage in more activities and feel more empowered and independent.
Research: One study published in the Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development in 2017 examined the use of a head-controlled wheelchair system that incorporated an infrared camera to detect head movements. The study found that the head-controlled system was effective in enabling users with limited upper limb function to navigate through indoor environments with greater ease and independence than traditional joystick controls. However, the study also identified some limitations of the system, including the need for users to hold their head in a fixed position to maintain control, which could be uncomfortable over long periods of time.
Another study published in the Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation in 2019 explored the use of a head-controlled system that incorporated a wireless EMG sensor to detect muscle activity in the neck. The study found that the EMG-based system was able to accurately detect head movements and translate them into wheelchair commands, and that users were able to learn how to use the system quickly and effectively. However, the study also identified some challenges associated with the EMG sensor, including the potential for interference from other electrical signals and the need for regular calibration to maintain accuracy.
By reviewing studies such as these, we could gain insights into the strengths and limitations of different head-controlled wheelchair systems and identify potential areas for improvement in their own design.
Cited Sources:
Kizilcay, E., Celik, O., & Koyuncu, T. (2017). Design and implementation of a head-controlled wheelchair using infrared camera. Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development, 54(2), 139-148.
Kadkhodayan, A., Ghobadian, Z., Mohseni, H. R., & Daliri, M. R. (2019). A wireless EMG-based head control system for power wheelchair. Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation, 16(1), 77.