The World Health Organisation reports that the number of people with disabilities is increasing due to population ageing and the rapid spread of chronic diseases. According to the Wheelchair Foundation, over seven billion people worldwide require a wheelchair for their daily activities; safety and convenience are their primary requirements. Students from the HD in Computer and Electronic Engineering attempted to address these requirements by using artificial intelligence (AI) to design a “Smart Wheelchair” with voice functions. This project won the overall Champion in VTC STEM Challenge Cup.
The “brain” of the Smart Wheelchair is an AI system. Using a camera with object recognition technology, the Smart Wheelchair can identify nearby obstacles. When there is a fixed obstacle in front of the wheelchair, the AI system will command the wheelchair to decelerate or halt. In addition, the wheelchair is equipped with a voice recognition device for better controllability. Using just a few command keywords, such as “raise” and “lower”, a user can adjust the height of the foot pedal to easily get into and dismount from the wheelchair. In addition, the wheelchair is equipped with position tracking and SOS messaging functions. If a user has an accident, he can press the “Help” button. The system will immediately send an SOS message to family members or carers via their mobile phones.
Engineering innovation and technology play critical roles in improving human lives. IVE Engineering will continue to nurture its students’ potential to develop smart products to help disadvantaged communities.
