A novel design and implementation of wheelchair navigation system using Leap Motion sensor

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Rehabilitation Technology
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Traditional wheelchair control methods can be challenging for individuals with limited finger mobility, such as amputee and stroke patients.
• Existing systems may require constant internet connectivity or complex interfaces, limiting usability.
• There is a need for intuitive and accessible wheelchair navigation solutions for diverse user populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and implement a novel leap motion wheelchair navigation system.
• To enable intuitive wheelchair control for users with limited hand dexterity.
• To enhance mobility independence for amputee and stroke patients.

Main Methods:

• A prototype wheelchair navigation system utilizing a Leap Motion sensor for gesture recognition.
• Implementation of Bluetooth for wireless communication, eliminating the need for internet connectivity.
• Integration of Dynamixel motors for precise and responsive wheelchair movement.
• Evaluation of the system using metrics such as response time and speed resolution.

Main Results:

• The developed system successfully translates hand, fist, palm, or wrist gestures into wheelchair commands.
• Performance tests demonstrated minimal delay and high speed resolution, indicating precise control.
• The system provides movement independence for users unable to control wheelchairs with finger movements.
• The Bluetooth communication ensures reliable operation without internet dependency.

Conclusions:

• The leap motion wheelchair navigation system shows significant potential for real-world application.
• It offers a viable solution to enhance mobility and independence for amputee, stroke, and rehabilitation patients.
• The system's design addresses limitations of existing technologies by being gaze-independent, voice-independent, and internet-independent.