6 research outputs found
A cross-sectional study using wireless electrocardiogram to investigate physical workload of wheelchair control in real world environments
The wheelchair is a key invention that provides individuals with limitations in
mobility increased independence and participation in society. However, wheelchair
control is a complicated motor task that increases physical and mental workload. New
wheelchair interfaces, including power-assisted devices can further enable users by
reducing the required effort especially in more demanding environments. The protocol
engaged novice wheelchair users to push a wheelchair with and without power assist in
a simple and complex environment using wireless Electrocardiogram (ECG) to
approximate heart rate (HR). Results indicated that HR determined from ECG data,
decreased with use of the power-assist. The use of power-assist however did reduce
behavioral performance, particularly within obstacles that required more control