Abstract
The main goal of the project presented in this paper is to study the driveability of motor vehicles using only upper extremities, with real-time haptic feedback in a drive-by-wire (DbW) hand-operated control. After a thorough revision of existing solutions in car adaptations for disabled people, aeronautic controls and concept cars, a prototype device has been developed. This prototype manages steering, throttle, brake, and gears of the vehicle with only hand and arm movements. Its design has been defined considering the opinion and expectations of people with lower extremity disabilities, who are potential beneficiaries of that concept, as well as ergonomic criteria, in order to achieve a simple, smart and userfriendly device, attractive and easy to control even by inexperienced users. Three main targets have been aimed to in the development of this device: ergonomic design, realistic and effective force feedback, and to follow an inclusive approach. A compact, smart-looking device has been designed, oriented to a technologic, futuristic image.
Keywords: drive-by-wire, haptic feedback, ergonomics