Bloorview MacMillan Centre produces a number of small digital input devices which may be used to replace conventional wheelchair joysticks for driving, or used to control other systems requiring digital inputs. These digital devices are smaller than conventional wheelchair joysticks, making them more suitable for users with limited hand or finger movements. Two such devices available are the Digital Joystick and the Miniature Touchplate System. The Digital Joystick is a compact joystick ideal for users with limited hand movement.
Directional control is obtained by moving the joystick in any one of the eight directions.
If the Digital Joystick is used to control to a device requiring a Select switch, a momentary switch may be connected to the jack is located at the side of the joystick for this purpose. The Miniature Touchplace System is ideal for users with control of only a single finger. The four touchplates each correspond to one of the four horizontal and vertical directions. Users may select diagonal movement by touching two of the plates at once. A fifth touchplate acts as a select switch.