Remote Controlled Powerchair – Test Dummies needed

Subject: Call for feedback on a wheelchair prototype
Date: Fri, 06 May 2005 07:14:21 +1200
From: Kevin Murray
Reply-To: answd-list@postoffice.utas.edu.au

Hi, my name is Michael Dytyniak. I am a student currently working with a
research team at Ryerson University in Toronto that is developing a power
chair that can be operated remotely over wireless LAN and/or the Internet. This is done via, on-board wireless technology and webcam, and a graphical user interface (used by the “operator”) that mimics a joystick .

This might be a real opportunity for those who cannot normally operate a power chair, and is also a low cost option. We are currently collecting feedback in an effort to improve the prototype and identify segments of the disabled population that might be best served by this technology.

You can visit the project website to view photos and videos at:
http://ncart.scs.ryerson.ca/nepwak/ This should give you a quick idea of
the nature of the technology. If anyone on the list would like to offer ANY commentary on the prototype, or suggest contacts/organizations that might want to do interviews it would be much appreciated. Specific questions we are trying to answer include (but are not limited to):

Who might the ideal users/uses of this system be? What environments might the system be useful in?

Is there a need for this kind of system?

What safety concerns might users have? Are the safety mechanisms in place adequate?

Is the level of audio/video feedback adequate? Is there sufficient
communication between the wheelchair occupant and the remote operator?

Does the system accommodate all possible users? Who might be excluded?

What might be a more effective interface look like, both to the controller
and the chair occupant?

What medical monitoring equipment might it be useful to include.

How might erroneous commands be dealt with (who decides what is erroneous? and what are the implications for safety and utility?)

What happens if the controller can’t decide how to proceed?

If anyone is interested I can e-mail a more detailed summary document.
Anyone wishing to contact me directly can send e-mail to mdytyniak@gmail.com

Thanks very much, any help is greatly appreciated.