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Innovative Power Wheelchair Control Interface: A Proof-of-Concept Study
Sandra L Winkler1, Sergio Romero2, Emily Prather3
1Sandra L. Winkler, PhD, OTR/L, is Research Health Science Specialist, James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Center of Innovation in Disabilities and Rehabilitation Research, Tampa, FL; sandra.winkler@va.gov.
Summary
This study introduces the Self-referenced Personal Orthotic Omni-purpose Control Interface (SPOOCI) for powered mobility. SPOOCI improved power wheelchair driving skills in participants, with most deemed safe for continued use.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Engineering
- Assistive Technology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Individuals with mobility impairments often face challenges using traditional power wheelchair joysticks.
- Alternative control interfaces are needed for effective powered mobility in this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test and refine an innovative control interface, the Self-referenced Personal Orthotic Omni-purpose Control Interface (SPOOCI), for power wheelchair operation.
- To evaluate the functional power wheelchair driving skills of participants using the SPOOCI system.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive case-series design was employed with 4 participants.
- Participants underwent 12 weeks of standard-care power wheelchair training with the SPOOCI interface.
- Functional driving skills were assessed pre- and post-intervention using the Power Mobility Program.
Main Results:
- All 4 participants demonstrated improved functional power wheelchair driving skills after the 12-week intervention using SPOOCI.
- Three out of the four participants were assessed as safe to continue with power wheelchair driving.
Conclusions:
- The SPOOCI system shows promise as an alternative control method for individuals unable to operate standard power wheelchair joysticks.
- Further development and validation are warranted to optimize safety and efficacy for broader clinical application.
