Towards Early Mobility Independence: An Intelligent Paediatric Wheelchair with Case Studies
File(s)iros_2012_2.pdf (1.24 MB)
Published version
Author(s)
Soh, H
Demiris, Y
Type
Conference Paper
Abstract
Standard powered wheelchairs are still heavily dependent on the cognitive capabilities of users. Unfortunately, this excludes disabled users who lack the required problem-solving and spatial skills, particularly young children. For these children to be denied powered mobility is a crucial set-back; exploration is important for their cognitive, emotional and psychosocial development. In this paper, we present a safer paediatric wheelchair: the Assistive Robot Transport for Youngsters (ARTY). The fundamental goal of this research is to provide a key-enabling technology to young children who would otherwise be unable to navigate independently in their environment. In addition to the technical details of our smart wheelchair, we present user-trials with able-bodied individuals as well as one 5-year-old child with special needs. ARTY promises to provide young children with "early access" to the path towards mobility independence.
Date Issued
2012-10
Citation
2012
Copyright Statement
© 2012 The Authors.
Description
16/01/14 meb. author copyrIght not yet published, OK to add.
Identifier
http://www.radhar.eu/events/IROS2012-robotic-wheelchairs
Source
IROS Workshop on Progress, Challenges and Future Perspectives in Navigation and Manipulation Assistance for Robotic Wheelchairs
Source Place
Algarve, Portugal.
Publication Status
Published