Development of an interface based on face orientations for operation of auto-wheelchair

This paper describes the non-contact Man-Machine interface based on the face orientations. The real-time image of the operator´s face was observed by the USB camera and the changes in the darkness area of the both nostrils were utilized for recognition of the face orientations. When the operator faced to up and downward, the darkness areas of both nostrils were increased and decreased, respectively. On the other hand, the difference between two nostril areas could be caused in cases where the face was turn to the side. Here, these characteristics were reflected to the recognition of the face orientations. The developed interface was applied for the operation of the electrical wheelchair.