A head movement image (HMI)-controlled computer mouse for people with disabilities.

Purpose: This study proposes image processing and microprocessor technology for use in developing a head movement image (HMI)-controlled computer mouse system for the spinal cord injured (SCI).

Method: The system controls the movement and direction of the mouse cursor by capturing head movement images using a marker installed on the user's headset. In the clinical trial, this new mouse system was compared with an infrared-controlled mouse system on various tasks with nine subjects with SCI.

Results: The results were favourable to the new mouse system. The differences between the new mouse system and the infrared-controlled mouse were reaching statistical significance in each of the test situations (p<0.05).

Conclusions: The HMI-controlled computer mouse improves the input speed. People with disabilities need only wear the headset and move their heads to freely control the movement of the mouse cursor.