Wheelchair simulation environment Wheelchairs have come a long way in catering to the disabled, offering automated features, joy-stick control and braking systems. In some cases their success has outdone many users' ability to operate their wheelchair successfully. This may be simply because users may not know, or have difficulty in using, these haptic devices. Digital Economy © Shutterstock Navigating spaces, especially the usual spaces found in the average home, can be a considerable challenge for disabled people operating wheelchairs. Simple reversing, turning and even braking procedures can become challenges. An EC funded project I-MATCH developed a simulator that not only enhances a user's ability with the chair, but is capable of assessing user-preference in order to customise the controls. The I-MATCH Wheelchair Simulation Software uses both kinematics and accurate dynamic models to provide the most realistic simulation environment possible. The virtual environment models a standard home-based surrounding, and also provides support for various PC based input devices such as keyboard, mouse and joystick. The idea behind the development is to train the user in the most familiar (and realistic) environment possible. The simulation also provides the user with different wheelchair control scenarios. At the same time it also affords the opportunity for users to assess the various control devices and to chose choose that which is most suitable for them. Not expecting a one-solution fits all, the simulator is geared with various parameters that can be adapted to provide realistic simulation for a number of different wheelchairs. This is a vital aspect, as wheelchairs need in every fashion and concept, to fit like a glove.
