Combining multiple criteria decision making with vector manipulation to decide on the direction for a powered wheelchair

Abstract

The application of the Weighed Aggregated Sum Product ASsessment (WASPAS) method to suggest a direction for a powered wheelchair is described. The method considers five directions as alternatives. The ultrasonic sensors readings are used as criteria weights. The overall score of the alternatives is converted to vector magnitudes and the directions of the alternatives are considered as vector angles. The suggested direction is represented as a resultant vector formed from the vector manipulation of the vectors magnitudes and angles. The suggested direction tends to move a powered wheelchair away from obstacles. The entire system supports disabled wheelchair users to maneuver their powered wheelchairs using a decision-making technique. This research presents that technique along with a new method of selecting the best compromised route. Three cases are considered, and a best compromised direction is suggested in each case. The suggestions from WASPAS could be over-ridden by the user through holding a steering joystick in a set position.