Theme: | Technology for Supporting Functional Autonomy and Independence (WP3 TECH-FAI) |
Type: | Research |
Status: | Ended |
Start Date: | 2016-03-04 |
End Date: | 2017-01-31 |
Project Leader |
Goh, M. Cynthia |
Project Overview
Powered mobility devices pose a safety risk. In fact, 20% of users report at least one major collision within a year. These safety issues often mean that older adults with dementia are excluded from using powered wheelchairs due to visuo-perceptual difficulties. Loss of mobility can in turn lead to depression and an increased reliance on caregivers. Our goal is to commercialize a novel collision avoidance and feedback system for powered wheelchairs. This can improve quality of life for people currently excluded from using powered wheelchairs by increasing safety and independent mobility. Our navigation-assistance system is an ‘after-market’ product that can be installed on commercial powered wheelchairs.
Braze Mobility unveils obstacle-detection system for wheelchairs