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Electric Wheelchair With Joystick Power wheelchairs with joysticks can significantly increase accessibility and independence. However, standardized joysticks can lack accommodation of individualized features of hand impairment. This study examined the effectiveness and satisfaction of customized power wheelchair Joysticks manufactured with 3D printing. Evaluation was conducted using the modified power-mobility assessment (PIDA), National Aeronautics and Space Administration Task Load Index and Psychosocial Impact of Assistive Devices Scale. Control The control system of a power wheelchair comprises two important aspects which are the joystick as well as the electronics (also called the controller). The standard joysticks are usually mounted to either the left or right sides of the chair, while more advanced rehab chairs could have swing away mounts that allow the joystick to be moved to the middle of the seat. The way that a joystick is installed and used will play an important role in determining whether it can be successful for a particular user. If a user has a lot of tremors it is essential to design the joystick in a way that the movements do not trigger the chair inadvertently. Standard EPW joysticks utilize proportional input devices that react to the deflection of the gimbal to control the chair's motion (similar to a video game controller or a car accelerator pedal). However, there are now a number of different alternative control options for power wheelchairs that require little force for activation. These include switch controls, sip and puff controls head array systems, and the chin control. While some of these special controls require an additional interface to connect them to the wheelchair, most are compatible with the latest generation of joysticks that have incorporated Bluetooth into their handles. Some of the standard wheelchair joysticks come with a screen to show the status of the system and provide feedback to the user. This is especially useful for those with cognitive or visual impairments. Some advanced joysticks allow for various accessories that include environmental controls, a TV and tablet. Regardless of the technology, a joystick is only as effective if it is comfortable for the user to use. This is why it is crucial to think about the size and location of the joystick's buttons to ensure they are easily accessible. It is also crucial to consider the joystick's sensitivity which can be adjusted to a range of levels based on the specific needs of the user. Comfort A joystick-controlled chair has many advantages that manual chairs do not offer. They limit fatigue caused by operational factors and permit longer travel distances over manual wheelchairs. They can also be used in places that are smaller and have more difficult terrain than a manual wheelchair, such as outdoor slopes or uneven surfaces. With this added freedom, users can experience a freedom of movement that breathes new life into their lives and reminds them of how great it is to be independent once more. A variety of different powered wheelchairs are available in an array of options. The quantity of bells and whistles a particular model features will depend on what the user wants and requires. The most commonly used features include: The control options on an electric chair with a joystick is possible to meet the needs of each individual. This includes the type and position of the knob, ball, or handle. Joysticks are usually located on the armrest of the driver's chair While others are set on the rear or front of the seat to make it easier for attendants to reach. Some joysticks can be positioned on the side of the seat for those who have limited shoulder mobility or muscle weakness. Other features can be more customized like the design and size of the joystick's screen. Some models are backlit or have the color of a display that is easier to read for those with low vision. Some models have extra modes that offer audio or visual navigation indicators. Other models can include odometers, clocks and indicators for battery charge. The ability of a joystick to maneuver in a limited turning radius is also important. The best models will have a precise turning radius, which makes it easier to maneuver obstacles in small spaces, like hallways. This radius of tight turning allows for easier navigation in public areas and stores. This narrow turning radius is especially useful for people who have mobility issues, such as cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, ALS Huntington's disease, spinal cord injury, or brainstem stroke. Safety Power wheelchairs are designed with safety as the top priority. They have reliable brake systems that can slow the speed quickly when the consumer presses the joystick control. They also have anti-tip wheels in the rear that help stop the chair from sliding forward. The most common joystick type is one that is proportional. It is similar to video game controllers as well as automobile accelerator pedals in that it accelerates the wheelchair the further it is from the center. These kinds of joysticks require proprioception as well as finger dexterity to work efficiently. A standard joystick is usually mounted on the armrest, however, a variety specialty controls are available that put the control in the middle or at the sides of the seat. Even with specialized rigging some consumers may not be able to deflect the handle. This is the case for some people who have spasticity, which can cause muscles to stiffen or deteriorate (atrophy). In these cases, it may be better to utilize a head-control unit that converts the movements of the user's body into the appropriate commands for the wheelchair. The size and position of the buttons on the joystick is another factor to be considered. If the buttons are too far forward or difficult to reach, it could alter the user's sitting position and result in strain on their hands. If the joystick is placed too far back, it could be difficult to maneuver the chair or turn the wheels. The seatbelt must be fastened on an electric wheelchair. Seatbelts must always be fastened when using an electric wheelchair. The most powerful wheelchairs can travel up to 8mph. Batteries should be charged frequently and at least every night. This will allow them to last longer and ensure their efficiency. You should also have your chair checked regularly to ensure that all parts are functioning effectively. Accessories Joysticks are a key component of power wheelchairs and can be enhanced by adding a variety. These range from basic switches to more sophisticated interfaces that connect to communication devices or even external environmental control units. Power wheelchairs with higher end features will typically come with a variety controller components that can meet the requirements of different users. For example the non-expandable controller would typically only accept the proportional joystick as an input device. However, an expandable controller may allow for sip and puff controls, special switches and head array systems. Some of the more advanced controllers can operate up to two power seating actuators that can alter the angle and position of the seat. My Mobility Scooters used type of joystick used in clinics is a proportional joystick also known as a motion-sensing joystick. This type of joystick similar to accelerator pedals in cars and video game controllers responds to the force exerted on the stick by increasing its output (i.e. The speed of the wheelchair increases when the stick is moved away from the center. This requires a good amount of intact proprioception and dexterity for effective use. While the technology that is in use today can compensate for small variations in amplitude during EPW driving, it is still unable to recognize and adjust to more severe, unintentional movements, such as those caused by larger magnitude tremors or other involuntary movements that are not accompanied by conscious intent, like athetosis.5 In the meantime, until we develop and implement new technologies that are able to reliably detect and adapt to these kinds of unintentional movements, many people suffering from conditions such as athetosis, MS, ALS or spinal cord injuries will not be able to safely operate an electric power chair. The majority of wheelchairs can be customised and programmed with the assistance of a clinician. These parameters can be used to alter the torque produced by the motor and adjusting the speed of the chair. They can also be used to set the dead zone, which is the distance in which the EPW won't generate an output. Some controllers allow the clinician to save backup programs. This is useful in an emergency situation or when the symptoms of a patient alter.