Novel computer mouse enables people with spinal cord injury to do breathing exercises independently

This research project can significantly improve the life and health of people with significant mobility impairments.

One of the most underestimated side effects of high spinal cord injury is breathing difficulties. The reason for this is the paralysis of important respiratory muscles. The coughing and the defense against secretions deteriorate, which can lead to complications such as pneumonia. More than that, breathing difficulties are the leading cause of death. It has been scientifically proven that regular breathing training can prevent this, which is why those affected should do breathing training on an ongoing basis, explains qualified engineer Michael Gstöttenbauer from the Austrian research institute LIFEtool in Linz. The non-profit company specializes in assistive technologies, especially for people with severe mobility impairments.

Access to regular breathing training

Now the research facility wants to enable those affected to do breathing training independently of others and independently at home. Because the training should be carried out regularly like brushing your teeth, but in practice it usually gets neglected. This is because it is often not very fun and can only be carried out by those affected depending on others. “So it makes sense that To offer users autonomous and motivating access to regular training,” says Gstöttenbauer.

IntegraMouse AIR

At the same time LIFEtool to the existing product IntegraMouse which the research facility brought onto the market in 2003. It is a computer mouse that can be operated intuitively with the mouth – clicks are made by sucking and blowing. Now in the second generation, it makes it possible IntegraMouse Plus, carry out everyday, work and education-related tasks on computers and mobile devices. Furthermore, it enables those affected to engage effortlessly and autonomously in social media, Smart Homes remote control – and even play complex video games. It is precisely this mouse that is now to go into the third generation in order to enable those affected to carry out breathing training independently and at home. Accordingly, the designation IntegraMouse AIR.

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Computer mouse and device for breathing training

Die IntegraMouse AIR will combine the functions of its predecessor with a breathing training device. The aim of the project is to develop an AI-supported, adaptive and multimodal computer input device that can be operated intuitively with the mouth. For additional use as a device for breathing training, the mouthpiece has to be optimized and the device has to be supplemented with a breathing training app. The R&D team is interdisciplinary and consists of LIFTEtool from regional partners: Die Developer electronics GmbHdie Haratech GmbH and the Software Competence Center Hagenberg.

Evaluation of breathing patterns

The respiratory performance of the different users is different. One of the main challenges is to adapt the device to the respective performance. Therefore, the consortium first wants to collect breathing patterns from test subjects. The evaluation of these breathing patterns should expand the scientific knowledge. At the same time, this forms the basis for the development of adaptive breathing training. With this function, users should be able to get the greatest possible benefit from their breathing training. A prototype developed Artificial intelligence (AI), as the core of the training app, is intended to support the individual planning of the training,” explains Gstöttenbauer.

Automatic calibration

The automatic calibration of the IntegraMouse AIR is important because it can be used in all possible positions and the neutral state should be established at the beginning. But even during use, the device has to be recalibrated again and again. Because the forces acting on the mouse can change, for example due to saliva that collects in the mouthpiece. The calibration should take place without input, i.e. automatically, so that there is no unwanted behavior, such as independent mouse movements or unintentional clicks.

Individual adaptability

In addition, the IntegraMouse AIR be individually adjustable, since different users have different requirements. Above all, the suction and blowing strength required for the click must be adaptive. “Important parameters can be set individually in an optional settings app,” emphasizes Gstöttenbauer. This adaptability to user needs enables a continuous and efficient training program for the respiratory muscles.

Maximum independence

IntegraMouse AIR should offer its users maximum independence in use. This means that users should have independent access to breathing training and be able to switch between using the mouse and breathing training without outside help. This only works if no mouthpiece change is necessary. The researchers are therefore faced with the challenge of optimizing the mouthpiece. This is important because achieving this goal will make an enormous contribution to more autonomy and thus increased patient empowerment along the path Patient Journey can afford.

The number of people with spinal cord injury worldwide is around 2.7 million. but IntegraMouse AIR can not only at high grade or complete paraplegia applied, but also for a number of other impairments. For example, in the case of bilateral arm amputations, progressive diseases such as muscular dystrophy or Amyotropher Lateralsklerose (IF).

R&D with stakeholders

LIFEtool offers computer-assisted solutions that enable self-determined communication and specializes, among other things, in assistive technologies, especially for people with severe mobility impairments. This is important insofar as it enables them to participate in social, professional and community life in a self-determined manner. The company is non-profit and is equally owned by AIT Austrian Institute of Technology and Evangelical Diakoniewerk. In this constellation, the legal requirements are in place to Research & Development to work with stakeholders. This is how the project came about IntegraMouse AIR, which started in May 2022 and will run until October 2024. The suggestion to IntegraMouse Plus and IntegraMouse AIR each came from Mario Marusic, who has been paralyzed since a swimming accident at the age of 19. He uses the IntegraMouse Plus By the way, not only for gaming, but also for his performances as a DJ. Soon he will also be able to use the computer mouse for breathing training. Marusic was initially a consultant and is now an employee at LIFEtool. He is involved in research and development as well as in the support team.