Gesture Recognition-Based Interaction with Smartwatch and Electric Wheelchair for Assistive Mobility and Navigation

Abstract

Smartwatches are becoming increasingly accessible to end users, thereby placing the power of mobile technology at their fingertips. On the other hand, electric powered wheelchairs are designed to assist people with mobility impairments to move with ease. However, people with cognitive difficulties may not be able to navigate the wheelchair as required and may require additional support from wearable devices. This paper presents a gesture recognition-based navigation for the wheelchair using a smartwatch. Users are able to navigate the wheelchair using gestures that would be easily interpreted by the smartwatch. This capability opens up new mobility possibilities never before envisaged.