Article

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. [Box: see text].

Langue : ANGLAIS