Intelligent Wheelchair

A powered wheelchair augmented with sensors, computing hardware, and software algorithms to provide navigation assistance, collision avoidance, or autonomous driving capabilities. Intelligent wheelchairs range from fully autonomous systems that navigate without user input to supportive systems that assist the user while preserving their control. They typically use sensors such as cameras, laser range finders, sonar, or infrared to detect obstacles and determine position within an environment. For users with cognitive impairments, intelligent wheelchairs can provide audio navigation prompts and prevent collisions, enabling powered mobility for people who would otherwise be excluded from wheelchair use due to safety concerns.