Ultrasonic head controller for powered wheelchairs

This report describes an evaluation by the Department of Veterans Affairs, Rehabilitation Research and Development Service, Technology Transfer Section (TTS). The Ultrasonic Head Controller Unit (UHCU) is the result of research and development conducted by the Palo Alto VA Rehabilitation Research and Development Center, under sponsorship of the Paralyzed Veterans of America and the VA Rehabilitation Research and Development Service. The UHCU provides an alternative to currently available human/machine interfaces for severely disabled individuals. Unlike switches or proportional joysticks, the UHCU operates without physical contact between the unit and the user. The UHCU produces analog signals in direct response to changes in the head position of the user. These signals can be used to control a variety of communication, robotic, mobility, and recreational devices. This clinical evaluation explored the use of the UHCU for powered wheelchair control by quadriplegic individuals.