HeadBanger: controlling switchable software with head gesture
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to present a novel non-contact method of using head movement to control software without the need for wearable devices.
Design/methodology/approach
A webcam and software are used to track head position. When the head is moved through a virtual target, a keystroke is simulated. The system was assessed by participants with impaired mobility using Sensory Software’s Grid 2 software as a test platform.
Findings
The target user group could effectively use this system to interact with switchable software.
Practical implications
Physical head switches could be replaced with virtual devices, reducing fatigue and dissatisfaction.
Originality/value
Using a webcam to control software using head gestures where the participant does not have to wear any specialised technology or a marker. This system is shown to be of benefit to motor impaired participants for operating switchable software.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The author is grateful for the continued support of the Assistive Technologists and Occupational Therapists at Beaumont College, Lancaster and for the support of the Embedded Interactive Systems group at InfoLab21, Lancaster University. The Services for Enabling Technology Testing (SETT) project being led by National Star College for the Joint Information Systems Committee (JISC) supported this work at Beaumont College, Lancaster and at InfoLab21, Lancaster University.
Citation
Oppenheim, M. (2016), "HeadBanger: controlling switchable software with head gesture", Journal of Assistive Technologies, Vol. 10 No. 1, pp. 2-10. https://doi.org/10.1108/JAT-04-2015-0015
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2016, Emerald Group Publishing Limited