A study of "aware Wheelchair" with Sensor Networks for Avoiding "two Meters Danger"

Abstract

In this coming ageing society worldly, a wheelchair is very important technical aid for an independent life with aids of elderly people and impaired persons. However, the number of accidents reported by a wheelchair was the worst among all the technical aids (e.g., walking frame, bed, shower chair, etc.) in 2012 in Japan. We propose "Aware Wheelchair" with sensor networks that detect dangers within "Two meters" and distribute awareness and suggest suitable actions to both user and caregivers. The system could also accumulate sensor data in mobility knowledgebase servers. We found that quick warning methods and assist functions that could correspond to various personal types with different physical abilities. We also show the results of wheelchair user assist simulation by the aware wheelchair.