Individuals who are multi-handicapped blind have a particular disadvantage. Although mentally capable they are likely to suffer educationally and socially. Limited mobility forces dependence on others for even simple needs. We hope to apply our technology to improve their independence education and quality of life. Our Phase II objective is to develop an affordable conversion kit for new or existing electric wheelchairs. Converted wheelchairs use computerized navigation and control to drive users precisely and safely throughout their environment on their command. Many destinations, such as bathroom, elevator, telephone, or kitchen are easily programmed for later recall.Using our low cost opto-electronic navigation technology, precise longitude, latitude, and vehicle heading may be computed many times per second. A personal computer uses this information to drive an electric wheelchair along any pre-recorded path. Paths may be complex and pass through multiple rooms. Simple but effective obstacle avoidance techniques are used to signal the computer when an obstacle or drop-off is encountered. If an obstacle or drop-off is detected the computer instantly backs the chair away. The user may then choose to go manually around or select an alternate path.Summary: Phase II will prepare the technology successfully demonstrated in Phase I for market. The end result of Phase II will be an affordable conversion kit suitable for all joystick operated electric wheelchair designs. Building on Phase I findings, an optimum configuration will be established and a minimum of five pre-production kits will be fabricated. These "beta" units will be used for field testing promotion and government agency reviews. Chair manufacturers and current electric wheelchair owners are the targeted market. During Phase II designs will be developed for functionality safety and long life at minimum cost. These goals provide a good base for a growing business.
Keywords: robotics navigation automation wheelchair computer controlTopic 1: Development or Adaptation of Devices, Mechanisms, or Techniques for Individuals with Mental Retardation