Electric Wheelchair Research Articles

Determinants of Between-Person Variation in Shoulder Pain in Individuals With Spinal Cord Injury: A Population-Based Cohort Study.

The aim of the study was to evaluate determinants of between-person variation in shoulder pain ("yes"/"no") in individuals with spinal cord injury living in Switzerland. This longitudinal study used data from the Swiss Spinal Cord Injury Cohort community surveys 2012, 2017, and 2022. Logistic regression analyses were used to identify determinants of between-person variability in shoulder pain while controlling for within-person variability. The prevalence of shoulder pain was 34.4% (95% CI = 33.0-35.9) when studying 4393 completed questionnaires. Significant determinants for between-subject variability revealed higher likelihoods for shoulder pain in females as compared with males (odds ratio: 1.57; 95% CI = 1.21-2.05), and when spasticity (1.49; 1.14-1.95), contractures (2.77; 2.21-3.48), and depression (1.39; 1.02-3.48) were present. In addition, shoulder pain presented highest likelihoods in individuals with incomplete tetraplegia (1.81; 1.32-2.48) versus incomplete paraplegia, in individuals over 26 yrs since injury (1.65; 1.15-2.37) versus up to 5 yrs since injury, and in individuals using a manual (2.17; 1.53-3.08) or electrical (2.16; 1.41-3.31) wheelchair versus no aids. There were significant interaction effects for gender with time since injury, contractures, and depression. Determinants of between-subject variability in shoulder pain were female gender, lesion severity, time since injury, specific health conditions, and wheelchair use.

Brief communication participation in social activities of six individuals with advanced-stage hereditary motor sensory neuropathy with proximal dominant involvement (HMSN-P)

The intractable neurological disease HMSN-P (hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy with proximal dominant involvement) includes four-limb paralysis and resembles amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Although the long-term employment and social activities of individuals with severe neurological diseases have increased with improvements in medical/welfare services, those of individuals with HMSN-P have not been reported. We analyzed the long-term outcomes of six individuals with advanced-stage HMSN-P treated in 2018–2023; one exhibited proximal dominant quadriplegia in 2018 and was using an electric wheelchair with full assistance. He had continued to attend Sanshin concerts for 5 years and organized a music festival for the local handicapped population. The other patients similarly exhibited quadriplegia; three were using electric wheelchairs with full assistance, and two were using pushchairs. Four attended music festivals for the handicapped, and all have completed 20–35 years' continuous employment, attended public meetings about HMSN-P, and actively participated in the meetings' discussions.

Stair Climbing Electric Wheelchair

From 18 century many types of wheelchairs had been designed, by developing its functionality. Our project focuses on addressing the mobility challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, particularly those who encounter difficulties navigating staircases. The project introduces a novel solution in the form of an electric stair- climbing wheelchair designed to provide enhanced accessibility in both indoor and outdoor environments. The wheelchair incorporates innovative technologies, including electric motors and intelligent control systems, to enable seamless and safe navigation on various types of stairs. The important parts of this product are conveyor belt, frame and driving mechanism climbing wheelchair for regular use by old disabled people. The design of frame will be done by considering various loads, stresses at various positions. The main factor of wheelchair are the angle of stair and center of gravity of whole system. The design process involves considerations for user comfort, safety, and ease of operation, with a particular emphasis on accommodating diverse user needs. Through a combination of both electrical and mechanical engineering principles and modern electronics, the wheelchair is equipped to ascend and descend stairs smoothly, offering a versatile solution for individuals with mobility impairments. We also plan to explore user feedback and ergonomic evaluations to refine the wheelchair's design and functionality. Preliminary testing would be done to demonstrates the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed solution in real-world scenarios. The findings of this study contribute to the ongoing efforts to improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities by expanding their mobility options and promoting inclusivity in various environments.

Ergonomic Pad Design of IoT-Based Portable Electric Wheel-chair

Background and Aims: Wheelchairs are a basic necessity for people with disabilities, especially people with physical disabilities. Although conventional wheelchairs have aided the mobility of people with disabili-ties, they are limited in scope due to physical exhaustion and health problems from sitting in wheelchairs for a long time. This research is important to develop seatback and cushion features for Health Electric Wheelchair Portable IoT-Based wheelchairs, for easy and comfortable mobil-ity for people with disabilities. The development of wheelchairs aims to reduce the negative im-pact of prolonged immobilization on people with physical disabilities. Methods: Research & Development method. The development stage: 1). The development of pads for Health Electric Wheelchair Portable IoT-Based seatback and cushion needed by wheelchair users; 2). Development of expert-validated Health Electric Wheelchair Portable IoT-Based ergonomics and seatback in accordance with the needs of wheelchair users to improve physical independence; 3). Modify components and equipment for Health Electric Wheelchair Portable IoT-Based cushion and seatback. Results: The result of this development of this wheelchair pays attention to ergonomic design by developing seatback and chair features for Health Electric Wheelchair Portable IoT-Based wheelchairs to provide safety and comfort when using wheel-chairs, especially physical disability. Conclusion: The development of cushion and seatback on wheelchairs can reduce the negative impact of immobilization on people with physical disabilities and is able to provide broad access for users to mobilize on wheelchairs and can adjust to the ergonomics of each user's body.

VocalVision: Smart Wheelchair Maintenance with Pressure Sensors and Machine Learning

The Vocal Vision system introduces an innovative approach to enhancing electric wheelchair maintenance and control. It utilizes a network of sensors embedded within the wheelchair's wheels to gather real-time data on tire pressure, temperature, tread wear, and alignment. This data is wirelessly transmitted to a central control unit. Advanced algorithms, incorporating machine learning and predictive analytics, analyze the data to detect irregularities and predict maintenance needs. Users can control direction, speed, and perform complex maneuvers with precision using voice commands and eye gestures. The wheelchair integrates OpenCV for eye gesture recognition and Google Speech Recognition API for voice commands, enabling intuitive control methods. This proposed method introduces a new assistive technology for individuals with disabilities, leveraging cutting-edge technologies.

Pedestrian’s Avoidance Behavior Characteristics Against Autonomous Personal Mobility Vehicles for Smooth Avoidance

Autonomous personal mobility vehicles (PMVs), such as electric wheelchairs, are meant to drive through pedestrian spaces. Cooperative pedestrian avoidance by PMVs is necessary in these spaces to maintain smooth traffic. Previous studies suggested that PMVs can avoid pedestrians on a shorter path without compromising each other’s acceptability. This avoidance can be realized by understanding how pedestrians react to the behavior of PMVs and considering those characteristics in the autonomous navigation of PMVs. In this study, the characteristics of pedestrian’s avoidance behavior were investigated. Experiments were conducted to understand the influence of the parameters of the PMV’s avoidance behavior on pedestrians. Results showed that the angular velocity of the PMV during avoidance affects the pedestrian’s avoidance width and tolerance against the PMV’s behavior. These results suggest that it is possible to avoid pedestrians in smaller avoidance spaces by controlling the angular velocity of the PMV and maintaining smooth traffic.

A Study on the Running of a Joystick-Type Six-Wheeled Electric Wheelchair When Curb Climbing

In Japan, the number of power wheelchair users is increasing as the country becomes an aging society. This trend is expected to continue in the future. Electric wheelchairs currently on the market include (1) bar-handle-type power wheelchairs for older users and (2) joystick-type power wheelchairs that change direction by operating a joystick. When such electric wheelchairs are used outdoors, the problem is curb-climbing at the boundary between the roadway and the sidewalk. It would be difficult for a wheelchair with a small front wheel diameter of 200 mm to overcome a curb height of 50 mm. Therefore, users are forced to take a detour or drive on the street to avoid the curb step. One of the most effective ways to solve this problem is to increase the wheel diameter. However, larger wheels make it more difficult for users to get in and out of the wheelchair. In addition, there are problems such as an increased footprint when turning, which makes the wheelchairs difficult to use on narrow streets. In this paper, using a joystick-type six-wheel electric wheelchair as an example, we examined the mechanism by which an electric wheelchair can overcome curb climbing and consider improvements to the chassis with a method that does not rely on increasing the wheel diameter. As a result, it became possible to overcome a curb of 96 mm in height with a front-wheel diameter of 200 mm.

Electric Wheelchair Manufacturing Analysis For Physical Disabilities Reviewed from the Aspect of Ergonomics

The high rate of physical disability is a trigger and spur in the development of research/research for people with disabilities to help with their daily activities, one of which is with a wheelchair. There is a sense of concern to see manual wheelchairs used daily by people with physical disabilities, especially with their abnormal hands and feet, so it becomes a problem in itself because they are quite tricky and tired of pedaling a manual wheelchair. This condition impacts their work productivity, thereby reducing their income/economy. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to manufacture electric wheelchairs belonging to two people with physical disabilities (i.e., belonging to Bagus and Huda). The ergonomics tests are carried out, including (a) Compatibility of the anthropometry of the user's body and the dimensions of the wheelchair, (b) Results of the user's postural analysis with RULA (Rapid Upper Limb Assessment) (c) Conformity of the dimensions of the wheelchair with the standard, and (d) Evaluation of the usability of the wheelchair based on observation. The results obtained for the Bagus electric wheelchair are from the anthropometric side. The popliteal height is longer than the distance between the seat and the footrest in the wheelchair. For Bagus to be more comfortable in using his wheelchair and for his legs not to be crooked (which will potentially cause more excellent musculoskeletal disorders), it is recommended that the distance between the seat and the footrest be extended. As for Huda electric wheelchairs, in general, they have been modified to adjust to the needs and conditions of Huda's body and make the design of Huda wheelchairs more ergonomic. However, the postural analysis showed that the forearm position was raised, and the hand was twisted when Huda operated the electric wheelchair controller. It is, therefore, recommended to lower the position of the controller in line with the wheelchair mount.

Peer-to-Peer Ultra-Wideband Localization for Hands-Free Control of a Human-Guided Smart Stroller.

We propose a hands-free control system for a human-guided smart stroller. The proposed method uses real-time peer-to-peer localization technology of the human and stroller to realize an intuitive hands-free control system based on the relative position between the human and the stroller. The control method is also based on functional and mechanical safety to ensure the safety of the stroller's occupant (child) and the pilot (parent) during locomotion. In this paper, first, we present a preliminary investigation of the humans' preference for the relative position in the context of hands-free guided strollers. Then, we present the control method and a prototype implemented with an electric wheelchair and UWB sensors for localization. We present an experimental evaluation of the proposed method with 14 persons walking with the developed prototype to investigate the usability and soundness of the proposed method compared to a remote joystick and manual operation. The evaluation experiments were conducted in an indoor environment and revealed that the proposed method matches the performance of joystick control but does not perform as well as manual operation. Notably, for female participants, the proposed method significantly surpasses joystick performance and achieves parity with manual operation, which shows its efficacy and potential for a smart stroller. Also, the results revealed that the proposed method significantly decreased the user's physical load compared to the manual operation. We present discussions on the controllability, usability, task load, and safety features of the proposed method, and conclude this work with a summary assessment.

Driving Assistance System with Obstacle Avoidance for Electric Wheelchairs.

A system has been developed to convert manual wheelchairs into electric wheelchairs, providing assistance to users through the implemented algorithm, which ensures safe driving and obstacle avoidance. While manual wheelchairs are typically controlled indoors based on user preferences, they do not guarantee safe driving in areas outside the user's field of vision. The proposed model utilizes the dynamic window approach specifically designed for wheelchair use, allowing for obstacle avoidance. This method evaluates potential movements within a defined velocity space to calculate the optimal path, providing seamless and safe driving assistance in real time. This innovative approach enhances user assistance and safety by integrating state-of-the-art algorithms developed using the dynamic window approach alongside advanced sensor technology. With the assistance of LiDAR sensors, the system perceives the wheelchair's surroundings, generating real-time speed values within the algorithm framework to ensure secure driving. The model's ability to adapt to indoor environments and its robust performance in real-world scenarios underscore its potential for widespread application. This study has undergone various tests, conclusively proving that the system aids users in avoidance obstacles and ensures safe driving. These tests demonstrate significant improvements in maneuverability and user safety, highlighting a noteworthy advancement in assistive technology for individuals with limited mobility.

Implementation of the Electric Wheelchair using Hybrid Energy Storage Devices

Implementation of the Electric Wheelchair using Hybrid Energy Storage Devices

2F5-5 Study on methods of alerting with vibrotactile stimuli during road crossing for electric wheelchair users

2F5-5 Study on methods of alerting with vibrotactile stimuli during road crossing for electric wheelchair users

Development of a Motion Controller for the Electric Wheelchair of Quadriplegic Patients Using Head Movements Recognition

The robotic wheelchair is designed to allow independent movement for patients with severe musculoskeletal and neuromuscular disorders that interfere with normal wheelchair propulsion by hands. Control of the movement of the wheelchair necessities residual motion of the upper extremity which was not applicable for patients with upper extremity disability as in Quadriplegic patients. Several research efforts have been proposed to help quadriplegic patients independently use the robotic wheelchair. However, the proposed solutions had many problems with accuracy, simplicity, and cost. The current work aims to build an accurate, simple, and low-cost control system for robotic wheelchairs using head movement. The proposed system was based on the use of the MEMs Inertial measurement unit (IMU) to sense the head movement gestures and transfer the gestures into signals to control the wheelchair movements. A new lightweight algorithm for the detection of head gestures was proposed to improve the system’s accuracy. The proposed system has been applied and tested on volunteers. The results revealed that the accuracy of the proposed method in recognizing head movement was 97% on average.

Safety Improvement by Comparison of Standard Specifications for Electric Wheelchairs

Safety Improvement by Comparison of Standard Specifications for Electric Wheelchairs

Design and Fabrication of Offroad Electric Wheelchair

This paper presents the design, development, and testing of an innovative Off-Road Electric Wheelchair (OREW) aimed at addressing the limitations of conventional electric wheelchairs that primarily cater to indoor use and paved surfaces. By focusing on off-road capabilities, the OREW project seeks to enhance the quality of life for individuals with mobility impairments, enabling them to explore outdoor environments and participate in various activities. The OREW has the potential to promote social inclusion, provide opportunities for recreation, exercise, and exploration, and significantly contribute to overcoming accessibility barriers faced by people with disabilities

E Wheel: A Smart Wheelchair

Abstract: In this project, we propose the development of an innovative smart electric wheelchair tailored to address the needs of individuals with mobility impairments. The primary objective is to enhance their quality of life and promote independence through the integration of cutting-edge technologies. The wheelchair's standout feature lies in its incorporation of advanced control mechanisms, notably head gesture control. This intuitive navigation system allows users to maneuver the wheelchair effortlessly, while also offering joystick controls. Furthermore, the wheelchair integrates a pulse oximeter sensor, enabling realtime health monitoring. This functionality is crucial for individuals with mobility impairments who may require continuous monitoring of vital signs such as oxygen saturation and heart rate. The inclusion of Blink facilitates remote monitoring and caregiver alerts, providing peace of mind to both users and their caregivers. Safety is paramount in the design of this wheelchair. To ensure safe navigation in various environments, the wheelchair is equipped with obstacle detection and protection mechanisms.

Wake Word and Speech Recognition Application on Edge Device: A Case of Improving the Electric Wheelchair

Wake Word and Speech Recognition Application on Edge Device: A Case of Improving the Electric Wheelchair

Verification of the Operability of Short-Distance Mobility Vehicles (Electric Wheelchair) WHILL Through Test Drive Experiments

Verification of the Operability of Short-Distance Mobility Vehicles (Electric Wheelchair) WHILL Through Test Drive Experiments

Evaluation of Conventional and Smart Wheelchair Technologies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

A significant number of people depend on the help of others to facilitate their mobility in wheelchairs. Physical disabilities hinder the mobility of persons with disabilities, making them unable to move around using conventional (manually operated) wheelchairs. Furthermore, people lack the ability to regain an upright posture if the chair falls. This study aims to evaluate conventional and smart wheelchair technologies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This study was conducted through a quantitative and cross-sectional research methodology to evaluate the effectiveness of wheelchair technologies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This is done by collecting data from wheelchair users, experts, and specialists in this field, such as medical engineers and others familiar with wheelchairs. The evaluation included the opinions of users and experts on the use of traditional and smart chairs in terms of the technologies used, ease of use, advantages, disadvantages, etc. More than 590 users and experts from all regions of the Kingdom participated in the study, and their answers were characterized by objectivity and realism. About 39% of participants indicated that smart wheelchairs are very effective, and 37.6% confirmed that these chairs can be used on many surfaces, while 23.4% expressed their appreciation that smart wheelchairs are useful for various purposes and terrains. On the other hand, the results showed that smart wheelchairs had high purchase and maintenance costs of 37.4%. This was followed by concerns about more maintenance requirements (23.5%), the need for constant charging (20.4%), and the need for users to be aware of energy use (18.7%). The results show some advantages of using traditional wheelchairs, such as low maintenance, lightweight, and often affordability. This type of chair faces many difficulties, such as crossing slopes and long distances, requiring some strength for use, and users needing assistance to move around. The study revealed significant progress in wheelchair technology, especially in smartphones and navigation. Evaluating existing wheelchair technology in Saudi Arabia has shown significant advances, especially in urban areas and healthcare institutions. Motorized electric wheelchairs are becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to enhance users’ mobility. However, the availability of high-end wheelchair models and their accompanying accessories remains limited.

Design and Development of a Wheelchair Prototype

The rate of people with disabilities in Vietnam is about 7% out of a total of 98 million. Wheelchairs are popular assistive devices for disabled people and are often found in many places around the world, including Vietnam. This study proposes a novel design of a prototype electric wheelchair to support people with disabilities in Vietnam. The electric wheelchair model was successfully simulated and manufactured, fully meeting the proposed technical requirements. The proposed model works well and is suitable for the shape and physical strength of Vietnamese people.