ORIGINAL PAPER
Gesture controlled human–computer interface for the disabled
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Warsaw University of Technology / Politechnika Warszawska, Warszawa, Poland
(Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Institute of Theory of Electrical Engineering, Measurement and Information Systems /
Wydział Elektryczny, Instytut Elektrotechniki Teoretycznej i Systemów Informacyjno-Pomiarowych)
Online publication date: 2017-02-24
Corresponding author
Dariusz J. Sawicki
Warsaw University of Technology,
Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Institute of Theory of Electrical Engineering, Measurement and Information Systems,
Koszykowa 75, 00-662 Warszawa, Poland
Med Pr Work Health Saf. 2017;68(1):11-21
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ABSTRACT
Background: The possibility of using a computer by a disabled person is one of the difficult problems of the human–computer
interaction (HCI), while the professional activity (employment) is one of the most important factors affecting the quality of
life, especially for disabled people. The aim of the project has been to propose a new HCI system that would allow for resuming
employment for people who have lost the possibility of a standard computer operation. Material and Methods: The basic
requirement was to replace all functions of a standard mouse without the need of performing precise hand movements and using
fingers. The Microsoft’s Kinect motion controller had been selected as a device which would recognize hand movements. Several
tests were made in order to create optimal working environment with the new device. The new communication system consisted
of the Kinect device and the proper software had been built. Results: The proposed system was tested by means of the standard
subjective evaluations and objective metrics according to the standard ISO 9241-411:2012. The overall rating of the new HCI system
shows the acceptance of the solution. The objective tests show that although the new system is a bit slower, it may effectively
replace the computer mouse. Conclusions: The new HCI system fulfilled its task for a specific disabled person. This resulted in the
ability to return to work. Additionally, the project confirmed the possibility of effective but nonstandard use of the Kinect device.
Med Pr 2017;68(1):11–21