Introduction to Motorized Power Wheelchair Control Technology

For motorized power wheelchairs, the basic control behavior is usually completed using the control handle. The technology of using body movements to control motorized power wheelchairs is still in its infancy. In order to further evaluate its controllability, it is necessary to use a comparative testing method for demonstration. The test results showed that the control system is consistent with human usage habits, and there are no obvious control barriers compared to traditional control methods. This research provides a scientific basis for the controllability and user selection of motorized power wheelchairs.

With the improvement of people’s living standards, the health machinery for the elderly has gradually developed from simple and primary towards humane and integrated direction. Motorized power wheelchairs are such a product. It adds power drive devices, control devices, batteries and other components on the basis of traditional manual wheelchairs. Motorized power wheelchairs, such as the electric reclining wheelchair are very suitable for the elderly and disabled people who have difficulty in movement. Because of their simple and convenient operation, motorized power wheelchairs are gradually being widely used.

Motorized power wheelchairs use a control lever for control

However, as a control method that uses the arms for control, the control lever is not practical for users with insufficient arm flexibility, or in situations where other operations need to be performed using the arms. This requires other methods to replace the control lever to control the motorized power wheelchair. Currently, the most common methods are voice control, facial direction recognition, brain waves, and body movements.

Voice control of motorized power wheelchairs requires the use of language to control the device

There is a high requirement for pronunciation accuracy. The control system needs to be familiar with the user’s pronunciation habits, and there are still some difficulties in accurately recognizing and controlling language in a timely manner. Facial recognition is based on facial orientation for recognition. In order to cooperate with the sensor, the user needs to maintain a certain facial orientation, which creates a psychological burden on the user. Brain wave control is an advanced development direction in the field of control in the future. However, since the technology is still in its infancy, many internal rules and regulations are not yet perfect, and it will take a long time to achieve routine application. Power wheelchair manufacturers must carefully assess the readiness level of the technology before incorporating it into their products.

Body movements are used to control motorized power wheelchairs

Using certain body movements of the user to control the direction and speed of the wheelchair. This method is aimed at patients with limited mobility in the arms, the entire body can also move the center of gravity, or users who are physically healthy but not convenient to use their arms for short-distance movement.

Through experimental research on the technology of controlling motorized power wheelchairs through body movements, it has been proven that it is feasible to control motorized power wheelchairs using tilt sensors. The control system is very consistent with users’ intuitive feelings and requirements for the movement of motorized power wheelchairs, and users can quickly learn its operating essentials within a short period of time.