Using the EMG Signal to Control a Wheelchair

Among the most important human needs is the desire to live as comfortably and independently as possible. Nothing bothers the patient so much as the infirmity of his own body, often resulting in a high dependence on the care of others, even during simple everyday activities. The ability to move and manipulate objects in the human environment is the basis of human functioning. At the same time, such simple activities are a huge problem for many people, and sometimes even an unattainable barrier to a better life. The reasons for this situation vary, ranging from genetic defects, through various types of diseases, to injuries and accidents, which in drastic cases may even result in amputations of parts of the human body. The article presents aspects related to the measurement of the signal of electrical activity of skeletal muscles (EMG) and the simulation results of the recorded signal use to control the device operation, e.g. in the form of a wheelchair, which is an aid for the patient in moving around.