Elderly and visually impaired individuals often face mobility challenges, making them reliant on caregivers and manual wheelchairs. This dependence can reduce their autonomy and make independent navigation difficult.
To address this issue, a team of students from the SRM Institute of Science and Technology student branch, Tiruchirappalli Campus, in collaboration with the Sree Sai Saran Trust, is developing an autonomous wheelchair designed to enhance mobility and independence.
The wheelchair system is equipped with ultrasonic, LiDAR sensors, and a depth camera to detect obstacles, map its surroundings, and autonomously navigate through any environment. AI and machine learning models calculate optimal routes to avoid obstacles and ensure smooth navigation. A voice-controlled interface allows users to control the wheelchair using simple voice commands, eliminating the need for physical input. Haptic and audio feedback systems alert users to nearby obstacles, keeping them safe and informed. Additionally, the wheelchairs’ ergonomic design prioritizes user comfort.
This innovative solution offers a more accessible and empowering mode of navigation, increasing safety and autonomy for elderly and visually impaired individuals.
This project was made possible by $1,290.00 in funding from EPICS in IEEE and the Jon C. Taenzer Memorial Fund.