Design and Evaluation of the Extended FBS Model Based Gaze-Control Power Wheelchair for Individuals Facing Manual...

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Assistive Technology

Background:

• Individuals with upper limb disadvantages face challenges operating traditional power wheelchair joysticks.
• Existing control systems may not adequately address the diverse needs of this population.
• The Function-Behavior-Structure (FBS) model offers a framework for analyzing and designing complex systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design an alternative power wheelchair control system for users with upper limb disadvantages.
• To develop a gaze-controlled system leveraging the extended FBS model and MoSCoW prioritization.
• To evaluate the system's performance and user experience in real-world conditions.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the extended Function-Behavior-Structure (FBS) model to derive design requirements.
• Employed the MoSCoW method for prioritizing design requirements.
• Developed a three-layered gaze-controlled system (perception, decision-making, execution).
• Conducted indoor field testing with participants.

Main Results:

• The gaze-controlled wheelchair system demonstrated effective navigation with an average driving drift of less than 20 cm.
• User experience surveys indicated positive perceptions of usability, ease of use, and overall satisfaction.
• The system successfully translated user gaze into controlled wheelchair movements.

Conclusions:

• The proposed gaze-controlled wheelchair system is a viable and effective alternative for individuals with upper limb impairments.
• The extended FBS model provides a robust framework for designing advanced assistive technologies.
• This technology has the potential to significantly enhance the independence and quality of life for power wheelchair users.