Telemanipulation of wheelchair mounted robotic ARM via FlexEffect for persons with muscular dystrophy

The FlexEffect, comprised of an IMU and an Arduino microcontroller, is used to control a wheelchair mounted robotic arm which is intended to give mobility back to persons with muscular dystrophy. Motions are scalable to fit the individual needs of the customer to ensure that the full range of motion of the robotic ARM can be used independent of the range of motion of the customer. The current market has no robotic interface that allows people with severe upper arm impairments to easily use the ARM robot; thus, sales of wheelchair mounted robots do not correlate to the number of potential customers. Technology available now includes joysticks and touch screens which limit the user; with the FlexEffect the user will be able to move the device and the ARM will follow the movement of the user. By creating a cost effective alternative interface between the ARM and the user, a larger market for robotic control will be available to customers due to affordability. By creating a software interface with the Flock of Birds, which is not readily used to control the ARM, we are able to prove that other more affordable interfaces are possible. Components including an IMU and Arduino will be used to create the inexpensive interface which will be a suitable option for patients looking for an easy way to control wheelchair mounted robotic arms.