Target acquisition by a hands-free wireless tilt mouse

Today the effective use of computers (e.g. those with Internet browsers and graphical interfaces) involves the use of some sort of cursor control like what a mouse provides. However, a standard mouse is not always the best option for all users. There are currently many devices available to provide computer access to persons who do not have use of their arms or legs. There is no single solution as each device and application has to be tailored to each user´s unique preferences and abilities. To provide a better option for users with spinal cord injuries or severe disabilities an inexpensive wireless head tilt mouse using an accelerometer has been designed and built and its targeting performance compared to traditional mouse devices to show feasibility. The head tilt mouse uses Bluetooth to communicate with the host computer. Software running on the host translates accelerometer readings into cursor movements and, currently, button presses into mouse clicks.