Design and feasibility study of an integrated pointing device apparatus for individuals with spinal cord injury

Hsieh Ching Chen*, Yung Ping Liu, Chia Ling Chen, Chih Yong Chen

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalJournal Article peer-review

16 Scopus citations

Abstract

Despite the commercial availability of numerous computer-pointing devices, many severely disabled individuals still rely on customized equipment to operate computers. This study presents a novel Integrated Pointing Device Apparatus (IPDA) that integrates numerous commercial pointing devices. The novel IPDA, which complies with a standard USB 1.1 interface, is compatible with most tested computer-pointing devices and flexibly integrates commercial computer devices, tailoring them to suit individual needs. By using simple integrated circuit design and low-cost electronic components, this low-cost apparatus is easily maintained. The feasibility of the IPDA was evaluated by four subjects with high-level cervical (C4-5) spinal cord injury (SCI). Participants performed normal move-and-click and drag-and-drop tasks typically performed by computer pointing devices. Each participant not able to use a traditional computer mouse or trackball were able to operate a computer adequately with the IPDA and three including one operating a trackball with his chin, operated computers easily and smoothly. This feasibility study showed that the IPDA effectively integrates commercial pointing devices, thereby providing the possibility for some people with SCI to obtain computer operability. This study demonstrated the advantages of flexibility, low cost, and acceptable efficiency of the novel IPDA.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)275-283
Number of pages9
JournalApplied Ergonomics
Volume38
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - 05 2007

Keywords

  • Assistance device design
  • Computer pointing device
  • Disability

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