EMG switch performance study (Version1)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Evaluation of EMG switch performance in simulated assistive technology applications.
IRAS ID
199853
Contact name
Simon Judge
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Section of Public Health, School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 4 months, 28 days
Research summary
Electronic assistive technology allows individuals with severe disabilities to control equipment that they would otherwise not be able to access. Whilst Stephen Hawking is an example of someone who uses electronic assistive technology there are a wide range of individuals with different conditions and presentations who rely on this technology for independence and control. These devices are commonly split into ‘communication aids’ – that provide speech output for those unable to speak and ‘environmental controls’ – that provide control of equipment around a person for those unable to physically access it – e.g. phones, computers, doors and more.
Electromyography (EMG) is a way of detecting the tiny electrical signals produced by muscles. EMG is a long established technology and has clear potential for improving the way that individuals with physical disabilities control assistive technology. To date, however, EMG has not successfully been used as a control method for this group of individuals. Recent advances in EMG technology provide new potential for this technology to be used in this way.
This study aims to evaluate the performance of an EMG switch with patients with severe physical disabilities. The EMG switch uses ‘dry’ sensors (that do not use gels) and produces a switch output (an on/off) when it detects muscle activity. Previous lab testing has shown that the switch can be worn on several muscle locations giving repeatable, reliable signals.
This study will evaluate the performance of the EMG switch with patient participants in a controlled simulation environment. These participants will be individuals with a severe physical disability who currently use a switch to control assistive technology. Up to ten participants will be recruited through the assistive technology team at Barnsley Hospital. The evaluation will include measuring a number of performance data through simulations and interviewing participants about their experience of using the switch.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Sheffield Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/YH/0094
Date of REC Opinion
18 Mar 2016
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion