Terrain Sensing Technology Moves From Robots and SUVs to Wheelchairs
By Ruppert, Barb; Fort Detrick Standard,Publication Date: November 24, 2010
Article outlines the development of technology that enables an electric powered wheelchair to automatically detect hazardous terrain and implement safe driving strategies. The system is run on a laptop computer mounted onto the wheelchair and consists of an inertial sensor, caster and driving wheel encoders, a transitional board and compatible joystick, and a laser line striper, originally developed for military robotic vehicles, which classifies terrain conditions so the system can self adjust. The wheelchair system was developed by a team of scientists from the Center for Intelligent Systems at Florida State University and the University of Pittsburgh’s Human Engineering Research Laboratories (HERL) with funding from the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command’s Telemedicine and Advanced Technology Research Center. With the collaboration of a strong commercial partner, the scientists estimate that the technology could be assisting electric wheelchair users in about five years.
Published by: Comprint Military Publications (Website:http://www.dcmilitary.com/)
Link to text: http://www.dcmilitary.com/stories/112410/standard_28259.shtml
