ABSTRACT

Many individuals with upper limb impairments or movement disorders find it difficult to use conventional input devices like a mouse or movement joystick for computer access tasks. A specially designed programmable isometric joystick, which requires less dexterity and coordination to operate than a conventional joystick, seems a feasible alternative. The present study explores this feasibility in steering-oriented computer access tasks such as menu navigation. The study also analyzes the effects of a Proportional-Integral-Derivative based correction algorithm on the user’s steering performance while moving a cursor along three paths with varying levels of difficulty. The correction algorithm was shown to significantly decrease the error (p = 0.011) and variability (p =0.01) in cursor movement although the movement offset and trial time were not affected. These encouraging results may permit the development of better control interfaces for individuals with compromised motor control.