Abstract
The POCUS Project has explored the possibilities to use the MANUS Manipulator as an assistive tool for 7 children and young adults with cerebral palsy, aged from 7 to 29 years. In an “interactive development” approach of fast iterations of development (interfaces, control methods), training and testing, new control environments have been created with the ADAPTICOM configuring method. They have been designed for minimal demands on coordinated user control, starting with 2 or 3 switches to control all gripper movements in space. Controls and control procedures have been elaborated individually, resulting in interfaces like large lapboard mounted push buttons, a keypad, a joystick, head-controlled switches, or an individually moulded hand-held grip with 3 integrated push buttons. Cognitive training has been an integral part of the study, supported by development of teaching tools and tasks.
Experimental results have been quite satisfactory, and two test persons have applied for a personal manipulator. User spin-offs include improved wheelchair control, computer access, assistive communication, cognitive skills and attention span.
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