Programming Unit for Automatic Control of the Stille-LKB Rotating Chair

Abstract

This article describes the development of the rotating chair for the investigation of vestibular functions via Bárány–Fischer–Tönnies–Hallpike and Frenkner–Preber–Fluur. A further development on the well-known Stille-LKB rotating chair is presented in the form of an automatic programming unit consisting of three basic units: a program unit, a preset counter and a control unit along with a power unit used in common. This programming unit makes it possible to preset a number of test cycles (six) with a theoretically practically unlimited choice of acceleration-deceleration values and times as well as desired constant velocities and their time values. The chair is also fitted with an electrically controlled hydraulic brake, which allows quick deceleration. A preset counter makes tests with many similar sequences possible. The advantages of automatic control of the chair vis-à-vis manual operation are illustrated by the considerable reduction of operational percentage error as well as the tremendous simplification of the complete operational procedure gained thereby.