title: Mechanical characteristics of micro-switches adapted for the physically disabled.
abstract: The object of this study was to measure the mechanical characteristics of several commonly used adapted switches in order to demonstrate the feasibility of collecting quantitative descriptions of switch performance. A stepping motor was used to drive a digital micrometer vertically towards the tested switch and proving-ring strain gauges recorded the operating force. Measures of activation and deactivation forces, travel and switch compliance were compared; several clinical examples illustrate the functional application of these results. It is anticipated that this information will permit clinicians to prescribe switches in a more accurate manner.
authors.affiliation: School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.
authors.forename: P L
authors.initials: PL
authors.lastname: Weiss
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008838:Microcomputers; D012656:Self-Help Devices; D014584:User-Computer Interface