Control of a powered wheelchair is often not intuitive, making training
of new users a challenging and sometimes hazardous task. Collisions, due to a lack
of experience can result in injury for the user and other individuals. By conducting
training activities in virtual reality (VR), we can potentially improve driving skills
whilst avoiding the risks inherent to the real world. However, until recently VR
technology has been expensive and limited the commercial feasibility of a general
training solution. We describe Wheelchair-Rift, a cost effective prototype simulator
that makes use of the Oculus Rift head mounted display and the Leap Motion hand
tracking device. It has been assessed for face validity by a panel of experts from a
local Posture and Mobility Service. Initial results augur well for our cost-effective
training solutio