WheelUp is a collaborative research project between Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) and University of Massachusetts Lowell. The overall objective of the study is to co-design a high-fidelity VR wheelchair simulator for diverse body. It uses participatory design to engage local communities with alternate-abilities for the development of a wheelchair training simulator with multimodal input interfaces for wheelchair guidance and control. Simulated and virtual reality (VR) training allows users to practice difficult or stressful tasks in a safe environment. The virtual environment will integrate joystick, muscle signals (EMG), and eye gaze (EOG). Aesthetic attributes of the simulator such as color, texture, and layout will be considered to enhance the overall visual experience, making the user experience more enjoyable and appealing. The simulated environment includes standardized hospital or home; variable environments with changing obstacles such as shopping centers or workplaces. (PI: Dr. kelilah wolkowicz)
Unreal Engine 5.0.3
Windows
Given the issues related to VR devices such as VR sickness or neck muscle strength, the virtual environment created by this project will be for both "flat-screen" VR and head-mounted VR.
When the game starts, it automatically configures the in-game camera for the current display settings. If a VR headset is connected and the VR streaming service is on, the in-game camera is associated with the headset positions. If not, the camera will also face forward, and projects 3 views for 3 monitor displays.
Press C to Manually switch between two condition.
(Gravity = 9.81 m/s2)
Current simulator uses Jazzy® Select wheelchair models. Details can be found here.
Two Anti-tip wheels are mounted in the front to help prevent the wheelchair from tipping forwards. Two powered-wheels are mounted in the middle. And two caster wheels are mounted in the rear.
Use any HID joystick to control the wheelchair movement.
Horizontal axis - steering
Vertical axis - motoring