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This study assesses if individuals with MS can drive electric wheelchairs more effectively with a variable compliance joystick (VCJ) and tailored algorithms. Customized algorithms improve driving performance compared to standard ones, particularly when fatigue adaptation algorithms are utilized. The VCJ, with personalized algorithms, shows promise as an efficient input interface for wheelchairs.
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Preliminary evaluation of a variable compliance joystick for people with multiple sclerosis Harshal P. Mahajan, PhD; Donald M. Spaeth, PhD; Brad E. Dicianno, MD; Karl Brown, MS; Rory A. Cooper, PhD
Aim • Evaluate whether participants with multiple sclerosis (MS) can drive electrical powered wheelchairs better with a variable compliance joystick (VCJ) and customizable algorithms or with a conventional wheelchair joystick. • Relevance • Upper-limb fatigue may restrict people with MS from using their electrical powered wheelchair effectively and for long periods.
Method • 11 participants were randomly assigned to 2 groups. • To complete virtual wheelchair driving tasks, each group used either VCJ in compliant or noncompliant isometric mode and a: • Standard algorithm. • Personally fitted algorithm. • Personally fitted algorithm with fatigue adaptation running in background.
Results • Participants with MS showed better driving performance metrics while using customized algorithms than while using standard algorithm with VCJ.
Conclusion • Fatigue adaptation algorithms are especially beneficial in improving overall task performance while using VCJ in isometric mode. • VCJ, along with personally fitted algorithms and fatigue adaptation algorithms, is a potentially effective input interface for wheelchairs.