A Low Cost and User Friendly Graphical User Interface for Programmable and Flexible FES

This paper presents the development and testing of a Tkinter-based graphical user interface (GUI) for controlling a functional electrical stimulation (FES) system. The FES device, which is used for individuals with spinal cord injuries or neurological disorders to aid muscle re-education, prevent atrophy, and improve circulation, is crucial in rehabilitation exercise. The existing FES devices in the market often lack a user-friendly interface, require complex settings to generate stimulus pulse, and are costly. This study develops a low-cost, user-friendly GUI using Python’s Tkinter, which communicates with an Arduino microcontroller via a COM port, allowing users to adjust various waveform types and parameters. Validated using Proteus simulation, the system demonstrated accurate data transfer and correct waveform generation. Results highlight the Tkinter-based GUI’s effectiveness in providing an intuitive and efficient interface for biomedical applications, with potential future enhancements in real-time data visualization and advanced waveform customization.