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Electric Wheelchair With Joystick Joysticks for power wheelchairs can enhance their use and independence. However, standard joysticks might not accommodate the specific needs of hand disorders. This study assessed the efficacy and satisfaction of custom-designed power wheelchair Joysticks made with 3D printing. Modified power-mobility indoor driving assessment (PIDA), National Aeronautics and Space Administration task load index, and psychosocial impact of assistive devices scale were used for evaluating. Control The control system of a power wheelchair includes two key components: the joystick and the electronics (also known as the controller). The standard joysticks are usually mounted on the left or right sides of the chair, whereas more complex rehab chairs may feature swing-away mounts that allow the joystick to be moved into the centre of the seat. The way a joystick is installed and used is a significant factor in determining whether it can be effective for a specific user. For instance, if an individual has significant tremors, it is crucial to ensure the joystick is constructed in such a way that the actions will not cause accidental activations of the chair. The standard EPW joysticks generally use proportional input devices that react to the amount of deflection on the gimbal to regulate the movement of the chair (similar to an automobile accelerator pedal or video game controller). There are a variety of alternative control options for power wheelchairs that require only a little force to activate. These include switches 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 new generation of joysticks that have incorporated Bluetooth into their handles. Some standard wheelchair joysticks have screens that display the state of the system and also to provide feedback to the users. This is particularly useful for people who are cognitively or visually impaired. Other advanced joysticks come with the ability to control a variety of accessories like environmental controls and even a TV or tablet. Whatever the technology, a joystick can only be useful if it's comfortable for the user to operate. This is why it is crucial to think about the size and positioning of the buttons on a joystick to ensure that they are easily accessible. It is also important to think about the sensitivity of the joystick which can be adjusted to a variety of levels based on the specific needs of the user. Comfort A joystick-controlled power wheelchair has many advantages not offered by manual chairs. They reduce fatigue caused by operational factors and permit longer travel distances than manual-operated counterparts. They can be utilized in areas that have less space or terrain that is more difficult, such as outdoor slopes and uneven surfaces. With this added independence, users can experience the freedom of movement that breathes new life into their lives and reminds users of the feeling to be able to move around independently. A variety of power wheelchairs are available in an array of options. The amount of bells and whistles on the specific model will depend on the requirements of the user and their wants. Some of the most common features include: Customization of controls on an electric wheelchair equipped with the joystick is a possibility to meet individual needs. This includes the type and location of the knob, ball, or handle. Some joysticks are placed at the end of the dominant armrest while others are placed either on the back or front of the seat to facilitate access by an attendant. Certain joysticks can be placed on the side for those with limited shoulder range or a weakness in their muscles. Other features are more personal in nature, such as the size and style of the joystick display screen. Some are backlit or in the color of a display that is more accessible for those with poor vision. Other models have additional modes that provide audio or visual clues to aid in navigation. They also include clocks, odometers, and indicator of battery charge. The ability of a joystick to maneuver within a narrow turning radius is also important. The most effective models will have a small turning radius, making it easier to navigate obstacles and narrow spaces like hallways. The narrow turning radius allows for easier maneuvering in public spaces and in stores. This tight turning radius is especially useful for people with mobility issues such as cerebral palsy, MS, ALS Huntington's disease spinal cord injury, or brainstem stroke. Safety Power wheelchairs have been created with safety as a priority. They have robust brake systems that can limit the speed quickly when the user presses the joystick control. The chairs are also equipped with anti-tip rear wheels to prevent the chair from tipping forward. The most common joystick type is a proportional control. It is similar to video game controllers as well as automobile accelerator pedals in that it moves the wheelchair faster the further the joystick is from the center. electric wheelchair lightweight of joysticks need proprioception as well as finger dexterity to function efficiently. A standard joystick is typically mounted on the armrest, however, a variety specialty controls are available that place the controls in the middle or at the sides of the seat. Even with specialized rigging, certain people may not be able to turn the handle. This could be the case for some people who have spasticity, which can cause muscles to stiffen or even die (atrophy). In these cases, a head control unit that converts the movement of a head of the user into the needed command for the wheelchair might be a better option. The size and placement of the buttons on the joystick is another aspect to consider. If the buttons are located too far to the left or difficult to reach, it could affect the user's position and result in strain on their hands. If the joystick is too far back, it can be difficult to maneuver 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 mph and a seatbelt that isn't fastened can result in serious injuries or death. It is also important to charge batteries regularly, every night if possible. This will ensure longer life and keep their effectiveness. You should also keep your chair checked regularly to ensure that all parts are working effectively. Accessories The joystick is an essential component of any power wheelchair and there are many accessories that can be added to improve its capabilities. These range from basic switches to more advanced interfaces that can connect to communication devices or external environmental control units. Higher-end power wheelchairs will often come with a variety controller components that can meet the requirements of different users. For example the non-expandable controller would generally only accept a proportional joystick for an input device, whereas an expandable controller can allow for puff and sip controls, specialty switches, and head array systems. Some of the more advanced controllers are capable of operating up to two power seating actuators which can alter the seat's direction and angle of the seat. The most basic type of joystick commonly prescribed in the clinic is a proportional control, also called a movement sensing joystick. This type of joystick responds 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 good deal of dexterity as well as a strong proprioception for effective use. Although the technology used today is able to compensate for minor variations in amplitude in EPW driving, it is still unable to recognize and adjust to many more severe unintentional movements, such as those caused by greater magnitude tremors or other involuntary movements that are not accompanied by conscious intention, such as athetosis.5 In the meantime, until we develop and implement new technology that can accurately detect and adjust to these types of unintentional movements, a lot of people suffering from conditions such as athetosis, MS, ALS or spinal cord injury will not be able safely to use an electric power chair. The majority of wheelchairs have a variety of different parameters that can be programmed or customized, usually with the help of a clinician. These parameters can be used to alter the torque provided by the motor, and adjusting the speed of the chair. They can also be used to determine the dead zone, which is the distance in which the EPW will not produce an output. Some controllers will also have the ability to save backup programs, which is useful for a healthcare professional to have in the event in the event of an emergency or a client with fluctuating symptoms.