Computer Mouse Head Control

Martin Brinkmann
Jan 14, 2009
Updated • Nov 22, 2017
Software, Windows software
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10

HeadMouse is an interesting software program for computer users who cannot or do not like to use their hands when controlling the computer mouse.

The software is compatible with most Windows operating systems including Windows Vista or Windows XP (Update: newer versions of Windows as well).

The only other requirement is a webcam with a minimum resolution of 640x480. The program will initiate a user face detection test during first run to calibrate the webcam for best results. All that is needed to do in this phase is to move the head until a drawing of a face appears in the middle of the computer monitor.

That's the end of the calibration phase and HeadMouse can be used from then on to control the computer mouse.

Control the mouse with head movement

HeadMouse supports several mouse related actions: the mouse cursor can be moved by turning the head into the direction it should be moved. Turning the head to the left side would move the cursor to the left while turning it up would move it up.

There are three different methods to do a mouse click. A mouse click can be initiated by closing the eyes, opening the mouth, or not moving the head around for 1.5 seconds. At least one method has to be activated. The "not moving the head" option seems impracticable, but since you only need to enable at least one of the options, you may keep it unchecked.

Objects like windows or icons can be moved using the very same principle by clicking once on the object to activate it, moving the head to move it and clicking again to place it.

There are several occasions where HeadMouse could come in handy. It provides the means to control the mouse with a webcam and movement of the head. While it is not as fast as using the hands to control the computer mouse it provides sufficient means to work with the computer, especially for users who cannot control the mouse with hands.

Closing Words

HeadMouse is a handy program for Microsoft Windows systems to control the computer mouse with head movement. Ideal for anyone who cannot control the mouse with hands or by other means.

Summary
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Software Name
Headmouse
Operating System
Windows
Software Category
Productivity
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Comments

  1. nandita said on October 13, 2011 at 7:46 am
    Reply

    can i have the source code ofr this s/w

  2. Flo said on January 14, 2009 at 7:20 pm
    Reply

    This is brilliant, however only works if the camera’s resolution can be set on 640×480.
    Really enjoyed playing around with it, setup was easy, no problems encountered.

  3. HED854 said on January 14, 2009 at 2:02 pm
    Reply

    I find this idea hilarious ! Voice control should be more practical imo. Imagine a webcam conference with people using head control :)

    Btw you made a typo : “A mouse click can be initiated by closing the eyes, opening the mouse” — the mouth :)

    1. CD said on June 22, 2011 at 11:02 pm
      Reply

      Yes voice control would likely be easier IF you can talk. More importantly, even if you can talk you must speak very clearly for the computer to understand so those with speach impediments would be unable to use that software. If you are quadriplegic with a speach difficulty this is a godsend.

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