The Remote Controllable Electric Wheelchair System combined Human and Machine Intelligence for Caregivers and Care Receivers

Thesis (Master of Science in Informatics)--University of Tsukuba, no. 41280, 2019.3.2

HelpStar Technology for Semi-Autonomous Wheelchairs

Abstract. This paper describes our virtual reality research prototype for supporting a semiautonomous wheelchair. The VR component enables the “HelpStar ” feature, which provides a user who is visually impaired with mobility independence. Our “HelpStar ” enabled semi-autonomous wheelchair functions more like a personal assistant, allowing much greater user independence. When the user finds them self in an unforeseen circumstance, the “HelpStar ” feature can be activated to allow a remote operator to use VR technologies to provide helpful navigational instructions or to send commands directly to the wheelchair. This paper demonstrates the successful integration of VR technologies with semi-autonomous remote vehicles for assistive support