Driving performance in a power wheelchair simulator

Abstract

Purpose: A power wheelchair simulator can allow users to safely experience various driving tasks. For such training to be efficient, it is important that driving performance be equivalent to that in a real wheelchair. This study aimed at comparing driving performance in a real and in a simulated environment. Method: Two groups of healthy young adults performed different driving tasks, either in a real power wheelchair or in a simulator. Smoothness of joystick control as well as the time necessary to complete each task were recorded and compared between the two groups. Driving strategies were analysed from video recordings. The sense of presence, of really being in the virtual environment, was assessed through a questionnaire. Results: Smoothness of joystick control was the same in the real and virtual groups. Task completion time was higher in the simulator for the more difficult tasks. Both groups showed similar strategies and difficulties. The simulator generated a good sense of presence, which is important for motivation. Conclusions: Performance was very similar for power wheelchair driving in the simulator or in real life. Thus, the simulator could potentially be used to complement training of individuals who require a power wheelchair and use a regular joystick.

Implications for Rehabilitation

• Individuals who require a power wheelchair for mobility often lack sufficient training, which may be supplemented through the use of a simulator.

• For such training to be efficient, it is important that performance in the simulator and in a real wheelchair be equivalent.

• This study showed that driving performance, strategies used and difficulties encountered were very similar, for groups of healthy adults driving in the simulator or in a real power wheelchair.

Keywords::

• driving skills
• driving strategies
• presence
• virtual reality

Declaration of Interest: This study was supported by grants from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (Canada) and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (Canada).