Smart is Developing an Autonomous Wheelchair with LiDAR
Daniel Johnson — June 9, 2020 — Tech
References: smart.mit.edu & spectrum.ieee.org
The Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology, SMAR, has been developing an autonomous wheelchair. Daniela Rus, the director of the MIT Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, indicated that the project started in 2016. Currently SMART is running tests with two units in Singapore, and another two at MIT.
The autonomous wheelchairs use three different LiDAR sensors that work collectively to produce a map. The wheelchair can then use an algorithm to determine where the unit is located on the map. The autonomous wheelchair is equipped with six wheels, which allow it to make tight turns and fit through doors.
Daniela Rus spoke further about the rationale behind the project, "When we visited several retirement communities, we realized that the quality of life is dependent on mobility. We want to make it really easy for people to move around."
Image Credit: Shutterstock
The autonomous wheelchairs use three different LiDAR sensors that work collectively to produce a map. The wheelchair can then use an algorithm to determine where the unit is located on the map. The autonomous wheelchair is equipped with six wheels, which allow it to make tight turns and fit through doors.
Daniela Rus spoke further about the rationale behind the project, "When we visited several retirement communities, we realized that the quality of life is dependent on mobility. We want to make it really easy for people to move around."
Image Credit: Shutterstock
Trend Themes
1. Autonomous Wheelchairs - Developing self-navigating wheelchairs with LiDAR technology can revolutionize mobility for individuals.
2. Lidar Sensors - The use of multiple LiDAR sensors in autonomous wheelchairs opens up opportunities for precise mapping and navigation.
3. Enhanced Mobility - Improving mobility solutions for the aging population can significantly enhance their quality of life.
Industry Implications
1. Medical Technology - The development of autonomous wheelchairs can disrupt the medical technology industry by offering advanced mobility solutions for patients.
2. Robotics - Autonomous wheelchairs utilizing LiDAR technology present a disruptive innovation opportunity in the robotics industry by integrating intelligent mobility systems.
3. Assistive Technology - The autonomous wheelchair project highlights disruptive innovation opportunities in the assistive technology industry, providing a new level of independence for individuals with mobility limitations.
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