Integrated ControlsOverview

Allison Fracchia

George Gober

Methodist Rehabilitation Center

Objectives Define Integrated Controls (IntCon) and

associated terminology Introduce the types of IntCon

Wheelchair controls External interface controls

Identify and explain technologies used by IntCon (Infrared, Bluetooth)

Explore pros and cons of IntCon Provide a vision of the future of IntCon

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What are Integrated Controls?

In its simplest form Integrated Controls allow the user to control more than one assistive device through a single input device.

Integrated Controls is a broad term used to describe the interface standards, the hardware bus, the software, the electronics package, the associated technologies, and the accompanying hardware devices.

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Integrated v Distributed Controls

Distributed Controls

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Integrated v Distributed Controls

Integrated Controls

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Technical Jargon

RESNA Serial Interface Standard Committee and the Trace Center created ISO Standard TC 173/SC-1/WG-7

Multiple Masters Multiple Slave (M3S) Initiative by the European Common Commission (EEC)

Computer Area Network (CAN) Command and Configuration Module

(CCM)

Command and Configuration Module (CCM)

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Why use Integrated Controls?

• Quick learning curve• Versatility• Streamlined approach to multiple device use• Potential Cost effectiveness

But most of all…

Greater independence for the user. Enhanced sense of control.

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Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Pyramid

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When to consider integrated…

User and Caregivers prefer it Funding is available for alternative controls Client has only one reliable access method The optimum access method is the same for

all needed devices Optimum access method may save

considerable cost Client anticipates controlling all needed

devices while in the wheelchair Future loss of functionality will result in only

one reliable access method

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When to consider distributed…

User and Caregivers prefer it Client has many different reliable access methods The optimum access method varies from device to

device When distributed access methods may be much

more affordable Client anticipates controlling multiple devices from

multiple locations (bed, etc.) When other factors (visual, perceptual, cognitive,

etc) make integration less successful When funding source prohibits IntCon

Who makes the decision? The IntCon Team

User and Caregivers Occupational Therapist Physical Therapist Speech Therapist Assistive Technology Specialist Seating Specialist Wheelchair Vendors Biomedical Engineers Physician

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What can you really control?

Wheelchair: Drive functions, seating External dedicated Assistive Devices:

ECUs, AAC devices External Environmental Controls: X10

modules, power doors, telephones, home automation

Computer: Assistive Programs External Entertainment Devices: TV, Cable,

DVD, CD, iPod, etc. Any InfraRed remote controlled device

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Technology: Infrared

Infrared is light frequency wavelength Used for wireless communication Common in consumer electronics Line of sight, directional Infrared codes may be learned by most

integrated control systems IrDA (Infrared Data Association) requires a

minimum of one meter of transmission but many consumer devices will transmit up to 3m+

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Technology: Bluetooth

Wireless technology standard allowing electronic devices to communicate

Wireless communication over short distances using radio transmission

Becoming common in consumer electronics Omnidirectional Bluetooth specs call for a maximum

connection distance of ten meters

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Technology: Systematic Automation Interface

Control of lights and the bed Control of HVAC and blinds Control of doors and elevators Control of Control of TV, DVD, etc Control anything with an IR remote Activate Nurse call Video Example

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Demonstration

• Programming explanation• Wheelchair drive programs• Seating • InfraRed external device control• Bluetooth computer control

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Heads Up DisplayDrive Menu Screen

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Heads Up DisplaySeating Menu Screen

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Heads Up DisplayInfrared Menu Screen

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Heads Up DisplayInfrared Music Sub Menu Screen

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Heads Up DisplayBluetooth Menu Screen

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Advantages

While in the wheelchair, user has access to multiple systems

User has control via the optimum access method

Mastery of one switch method provides access to multiple devices and modes

User has opportunity to gain control over a number of aspects of their environment

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Disadvantages

If battery fails or the electronics on wheelchair malfunctions, the user loses access to multiple devices

It takes time to scan through options and switch from one device to another

User is only able to access one device or mode at any given time

If IntCon is centered around the wheelchair, what happens in other locations, ie. Bed.

Funding Issues

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The future of Integrated Controls

The physical control devices will improve The electronics programming and capabilities will

be enhanced Device communication protocols may become

universal and specified Mainstream devices will become more and more

controllable Smart devices (in items we consider “dumb” at this

time) like clothing, food products, etc. Internet able devices will increase Neurologically controlled devices will appear