Alternative Input Device Using Breath for Controlling Powered Wheelchairs

초록

One of the most popular input devices for steering a powered wheelchair is a joystick. However, alternative input devices are necessary for person who has handicapped arms or hands. Therefore, input devices controlled by other body parts, such as foot switch or mouth-joystick have been widely used. We have developed the input device controlled by operator's breath for driving and steering powered wheelchair. We have been able to conform the usefulness of breath controlled input device through bpth computer evaluation and actual navigation with a real powered-wheelchair.