A portable, low-cost assessment device for reaching times

Abstract

We present the Systematic Test for Assessing Reaching Times (START), an interactive device for measuring reaction and movement times. START uses randomly lighted buttons to elicit reaches to a variety of target locations with a standardized setup. A magnetized wristband and reed switch monitor the hand rest position while capacitive touch sensors embedded in the buttons sense successful target reaches. A microcontroller measures reaching times at tens of milliseconds resolution. START can easily translate to the clinic because it is portable, easy to use and inexpensive to construct. We designed START for use with stroke patients and are using START to assess the progress of upper extremity rehabilitation of stroke survivors. It can be modified to fit a number of other motor control or cognitive tasks.