A head movement image (HMI)-controlled computer mouse for people with disabilities.
OBJECTIVE
This study proposes image processing and microprocessor technology for use in developing a head movement image (HMI)-controlled computer mouse system for the spinal cord injured (SCI).


METHODS
The system controls the movement and direction of the mouse cursor by capturing head movement images using a marker installed on the user's headset. In the clinical trial, this new mouse system was compared with an infrared-controlled mouse system on various tasks with nine subjects with SCI.


RESULTS
The results were favourable to the new mouse system. The differences between the new mouse system and the infrared-controlled mouse were reaching statistical significance in each of the test situations (p<0.05).


CONCLUSIONS
The HMI-controlled computer mouse improves the input speed. People with disabilities need only wear the headset and move their heads to freely control the movement of the mouse cursor.
Chen
Yu-Luen
YL
Department of Electronic Engineering, Hwa-Hsia College of Technology and Commerce, Taiwan. allen@cc.hwh.edu.tw
Chen
Weoi-Luen
WL
Kuo
Te-Son
TS
Lai
Jin-Shin
JS
D003143:Communication Devices for People with Disabilities; D016287:Computer Peripherals; D003199:Computer Systems; D004867:Equipment Design; D005260:Female; D019416:Head Movements; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011782:Quadriplegia / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D012050:Rehabilitation, Vocational / Q000379:methods; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D013119:Spinal Cord Injuries / Q000534:rehabilitation*