Infrared Non-Contact Head Sensor, for Control of Wheelchair Movements

This paper presents a new human-machine interface for controlling a wheelchair by head movements. The position of the head is determined by use of infrared sensors, with no parts attached to the head of the user. The placement of the infrared sensors are behind the head of the user, so that the field of view is not limited. Tests on a wheelchair have shown that the system is functioning in real life, and that the vehicle can be driven at normal speeds in a simple and natural way. The behaviour of the sensor and the generated commands are fully programable, so it can be adapted easily to other constrains or capabilities of potential users.