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Electric Wheelchair With Joystick Joysticks in power wheelchairs can greatly increase accessibility and independence. However, standard joysticks may be incompatible with the individualized features of hand disorders. This study examined the efficacy and satisfaction of customizing power wheelchair joysticks fabricated with 3D printing technology. Modified power-mobility indoor driving assessment (PIDA), National Aeronautics and Space Administration task load index, and the psychosocial impact of assistive devices scales were used for evaluating. Control The control system of a power wheelchair comprises two important aspects that are the joystick and electronics (also known as the controller). The standard joysticks are placed on the left or the right side of the wheelchair, while more complicated rehab chairs have swing-away mounts which allow the joystick to be moved to the middle of the seat. The way that a joystick is placed and operated is a significant factor in determining if it will be a success for a specific client. For instance in the case of someone who suffers from severe tremors, it is essential to ensure that the joystick is designed such a manner that these actions will not cause accidental activations of the chair. Standard EPW joysticks are proportional input devices that respond to the amount deflection of the gimbal to control the chair's movements (similar to the video game controller or automobile accelerator pedal). However, there are now a number of different alternative control options for power wheelchairs that require very minimal force to activate. These include switches sip and puff controls head array systems, and chin controls. Certain of these controls require an additional interface to connect to the wheelchair. However, a lot of them can be used with new joysticks that incorporate Bluetooth into the handles. Some standard wheelchair joysticks even have a screen on them to display the current status of the system and provide feedback to the user. This is especially useful for people with cognitive or visual impairments. Other joysticks with advanced technology have the ability to control many different devices like environmental controls, and even a TV or tablet. Whatever the technology, a joystick can only be as effective if it is easy for the user to operate. This is why it is essential to consider the size and position of the joystick's buttons to ensure that they are easy to access. It is also important to consider the sensitivities of the joystick, which can be adjusted to a range of levels based on the needs of each individual user. Comfort A joystick-controlled chair has many advantages that a manual chair does not offer. They limit fatigue caused by operational factors and allow for longer travel times than manual-operated counterparts. They can also be used in locations with less space and more difficult terrain than a manual wheelchair, like outdoor slopes or uneven surfaces. This increased freedom allows users to experience a new freedom of movement and feeling of freedom. There are a variety of power wheelchairs on the market, each with their distinct features. The amount of bells and whistles the particular model comes with will depend on what the user prefers and requires. Some of the most popular features include: The control options on an electric wheelchair equipped with a joystick can be made to meet individual needs. This includes the type and position of the ball, knob, or handle. Some joysticks are positioned on the end of the dominant armrest, while others are situated on the front or back of the seat to facilitate access by a person who is. Some joysticks can be positioned on the side for those with limited shoulder range or muscular weakness. Other features are more personal in nature, such as the size and shape of the joystick display screen. Some models are backlit, or have a color that makes it easier for people who have low vision to read. Some models also have auxiliary modes that offer visual or audio cues to aid in navigation. Other models may include odometers, clocks and battery charge indicators. Another important aspect of the joystick is how it can be operated within a tight turning radius. The most efficient models will have a narrow turning radius, which makes it easier to maneuver obstacles in tight spaces, like hallways. This tight turning radius makes it easier to navigate in public areas and stores. This tight turning circle is particularly useful for people who have mobility issues, such as cerebral palsy or other issues with mobility such as multiple sclerosis ALS and Huntington's Disease, spinal cord injury or brainstem stroke. Safety Power wheelchairs are designed with safety in mind. They have reliable brake systems that can reduce the speed rapidly when the user presses the joystick control. The chairs also have anti-tip rear wheels to prevent the chair from tipping forward. The most commonly used type of joystick is one that is proportional. It is similar to video game controllers and automobile accelerator pedals in that it accelerates the wheelchair the further it is from the center. Joysticks that require finger dexterity and a healthy sense of proprioception. Standard joysticks are mounted on the armrest. However, there are a variety of special controls that put the controls on the middle or side of the seat. Even with special rigging, some consumers may not be able deflect a handle. People with spasticity might have issues because their muscles can become stiff or weak. In MyMobilityScooters is possible to use a head control device that converts the movement of a user's head into a instructions for the wheelchair may be a better choice. Another factor to consider is the size and placement of the joystick's buttons. If the buttons are too far to the left or difficult to reach, it may affect the user's seating position and result in stress on their hands. If the joystick is too far back, it can be difficult to move the chair or turn the wheels. The seatbelt should be secured on an electric wheelchair. The most powerful wheelchairs can travel at speeds of up to 8 miles per hour and a seatbelt that isn't fastened can lead to serious injuries or death. It is also essential to keep batteries charged regularly, at least every night, if it is possible. This will ensure they have an extended life span and will maintain their effectiveness. It's also an excellent idea to schedule regular maintenance for your chair to make sure all parts are working properly. Accessories Joysticks are an essential element of power wheelchairs and can be improved with a variety of accessories. These range from simple switches, to more advanced interfaces that connect to communication devices and even external environmental control units. Power wheelchairs with higher end features will typically have a variety of controller components that can satisfy the needs of different clients. A non-expandable control will only accept the proportional stick as an input device, while an expandable one will also accept sip and puff controls and special switches, as well head array systems. Some advanced controllers are able to operate up to two power seating actuators that are able to adjust the position and tilt of the seat. The most basic type of joystick commonly prescribed in the clinic is a proportional control, also called a motion sensing joystick. This kind of joystick responds to the force by increasing output (i.e. The speed of the wheelchair increases as the stick is moved away from the center. This requires a lot of dexterity and intact proprioception to be able to use it effectively. While the technology that is in use today can be used to compensate for small magnitude movements that occur during EPW driving, it is still unable to recognize and adapt to many more severe unintentional movements, such as those caused by larger amplitude tremors or involuntary movements that are not accompanied by conscious intent, like athetosis.5 Until we can create and implement new technologies that can reliably detect and adapt to these kinds of unintentional movement, many sufferers with diseases such as athetosis, MS, ALS or spinal cord injuries won't be able safely to use an electric power chair. The majority of wheelchairs can be programmed and customized by an expert. These parameters can include changing the torque produced by the motor, altering the speed at which the chair moves and setting the dead zone that is the area within which the EPW is unable to produce an output. Some controllers also allow the clinician to save backup programs. This is helpful in an emergency situation or when the symptoms of a patient alter.