Wheel Chat: Episode 13 – Smarter wheelchair driving with Michiel Van der Bauwhede скачать в хорошем качестве

Wheel Chat: Episode 13 – Smarter wheelchair driving with Michiel Van der Bauwhede

In this episode of Wheel Chat, hosts Anton Mitchell and Justin Boulos are joined by Michiel Van Der Bauwhede from CoMoveIT to explore breakthrough thinking in alternative wheelchair controls - specifically for individuals with complex movement disorders such as cerebral palsy. Michiel shares the story behind CoMoveIT’s head and foot steering system - an adaptive control solution born out of university research and driven by a mission to restore confidence and mobility for users who are often overlooked by conventional joystick or switch options. What’s in this episode: Why traditional switches and joysticks don’t work for many people with cerebral palsy How adaptive algorithms can “learn” a user’s movement patterns for smoother control The importance of closed-chain positioning in reducing tone and increasing function When to consider head and foot control systems - and what signs to look for The difference between switch, proportional, and adaptive controls Gaming, independence, and access to digital worlds through alternative drive methods The role of posture, support, and tone management in enabling safe powered mobility Whether you're a clinician, assistive tech provider, or someone supporting a user with complex physical needs, this episode offers a detailed, practical, and inspiring look into what's possible when technology adapts to the user - not the other way around. https://www.comoveit.com/en/ 💬 When did you realise a joystick wasn’t the right solution? In this episode, Michiel from CoMoveIT shared how adaptive head and foot controls can unlock mobility for users with complex movement patterns. Have you ever supported a client who needed something beyond a joystick? What signs helped you realise it was time to explore alternative drive methods? Share your stories in the comments - your insight could help others rethink their approach.