Joystick with a variable compliance with compensation algorithms

摘要

The present invention provides a variable compliance joystick (100) with mechanical and software customization, and with integrated control capability, and a method of systematically determining the best mechanical settings and compensatory algorithms to embed in the joystick (100) to offer an individual with substantial upper extremity motor impairments a personal fit and maximum function. The joystick may include components for varying the compliance and damping of the joystick shaft (104). The method may include providing the user access to operate the joystick, operatively connecting the joystick to a driving simulator, displaying an icon on the driving simulator, controlling movement of the icon by the joystick, evaluating performance of the user based upon the user’s ability to control movement of the icon, and modifying hardware settings and software algorithms for the joystick based upon the evaluation.