A multimodal interface to resolve the Midas-Touch problem in gaze controlled wheelchair
Summary
This study introduces a multimodal graphical user interface (GUI) for powered wheelchairs, addressing the Midas-Touch problem for individuals with upper-limb mobility impairments. Combining an eye-tracker with a soft-switch offers superior control and enhances usability.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Engineering
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Assistive Technology
Background:
- Human-computer interaction (HCI) is crucial in rehabilitation.
- Gaze-controlled wheelchairs face usability challenges due to the Midas-Touch problem.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a multimodal graphical user interface (GUI) for powered wheelchairs.
- To assist individuals with upper-limb mobility impairments in daily activities.
Main Methods:
- A portable, low-cost eye-tracker and soft-switch were integrated into a GUI.
- Wheelchair control was evaluated using three modes: touchpad, eye-tracker only, and eye-tracker with soft-switch.
- Performance metrics included lap-completion time, command count, and information transfer rate (ITR) with eight healthy participants.
Main Results:
- The eye-tracker with soft-switch mode demonstrated superior performance.
- This combined mode achieved a high information transfer rate (ITR) of 37.77 bits/min (p<0.05).
Conclusions:
- The proposed multimodal GUI effectively addresses the Midas-Touch problem in powered wheelchairs.
- This system offers an economical and enhanced usability solution for disabled users.
