Visit #4
December 2, 1999
Goals:Further assess Lance's control of the joystick at it's new height. Try out the new widget mounted to a table top suction device.

Session:The new widgit mounted on the table top suction device works well- it prevents slippage from applied pressure.

This session, the joystick's height was not appropriate. Lance's muscle tone alters from day to day, he will need a joystick with adjustable hieght capability to match his variable range of motion.

We slowed down the mouse speed and increased the mouse size as Lance navigated the on-screen fitaly keyboard. These adjustments increased accuracy in letter selection and Lance was eventually able to spell his first and last name.

Outcome:For the next session, we will research other on-screen keyboard options. Are there any with a visual cue to let you know which letter is being indicated by the mouse before you type it? This session was very promising and served as a confirmation that we are on the right track.

Visit #3
November 12, 1999
Goals: Assess Lance's ability to control facial click widgits. Test joystick now that it has been altered to match the height of his wheelchair control. Determine if the bigger foam switch works better than the jellybean switch. Determine best positioning to render optimal manipulation of two buttons.

Session:Although limited by software complications, we assessed Lance's ability to manuever the joystick at the altered height. Lance reported easier control of the joystick at this height.

We used a head piece of Eyal Sherman's to explore the possibility of developing a facial click device for Lance. Although Lance has the ability to access the facial clicks, he expressed a preference to use the table top switches.

The black switch is easier for Lance to use. It is closer to his body and will be the main switch. The foam switch is next to the black switch and will be the secondary switch.

Outcome:Lance's team will keep focusing on table top switches, as opposed to facial switches, at this time. For the next session the secondary switch needs to be raised and tilted. Also, the team needs to find a way to keep the joystick from slipping across the table top as Lance applies pressure to it.