Technologies: GeckoSteer ™
GeckoSteer™ is a new mobile robot solution developed to address issues unique to the "collision proof" wheelchair. Current technologies typically use hardware fixed adjustments to compensate for spasticity, tremor, and other involuntary movements caused by diseases such as cystic fibrosis, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis. Unfortunately, these fixed adjustments also restrict the operator's freedom of movement. GeckoSteer not only filters out these irregular movements, it also interprets desired direction and speed signals from the joystick, passing them appropriately to GeckoSuper.
GeckoSteer™ interfaces with standard USB physical, electrical and software communication protocols of video game joystick controllers. Video game joysticks are ruggedized for hundreds of hours of active usage by serious of "gamers."
GeckoSteer's™ usage of industry standard joystick controllers lets the user choose from a wider price range of plug and play joysticks. Some of the most popular video game joysticks, like the one used in the prototype can be easily repaired with parts that are readily available. The use of an "off the shelf" joystick will reduce the cost of upgrading the user's current chair by a GeckoSystems authorized installer.
GeckoSteer™ is yet another GeckoSavant™ that works in synergy with other GeckoSavants(link) to create a truly autonomous wheelchair upgrade that creates a benefit to the user that is much greater than the sum of its parts.