SBIR Phase II: CoPilot - An Active Wheelchair Driving Aid for Independent Living

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II project proposes to develop and commercialize anactive driving aid that enables semi-autonomous, cooperative navigation of an electric-powered wheelchair(EPW) both indoors and in dynamic, outdoor environments. It uses intelligent sensing and drive controlsystems that work in cooperation with the driver to aid in negotiating changing terrain, avoiding obstacles/collisions, and maintaining a straight path. Additionally, the system allows for higher-level path planningand the autonomous execution of non-linear routes of travel in a safe and efficient manner. The goal ofthe project is to enable active, safe, and independent living. The innovation is that as an individual begins tolose cognitive, perceptive, or motor function ? due to age, injury, or disease ? the system can augment thatloss because it can interpret the user?s intent and it can ?see? out into the environment on their behalf. Thisexteroceptive sensing capability is enabled by leveraging the latest in 3D imaging technology. The team willexploit their experience in commercializing smart-EPW technologies (including acquiring FDA approval),and will apply the knowledge they have gained in developing autonomous driving solutions through theirparticipation in the DARPA Urban Challenge.The broader impact/commercial potential of this project will have significant impacts in the U.S. Socially,it will have a direct positive effect on the quality of life and independence of the elderly and disabled.Leveraging robotics for personal mobility can help Americans with disabilities to participate fully in basicactivities such as employment, education, worship, recreation, and other activities of community life oftentaken for granted. Economically, a serious side effect of the rapidly growing elder population, to over 70million by 2030, is that it will place unprecedented strains on the U.S. healthcare system. This impact canbe moderated in part by enabling individuals to maintain their independence and live at home longer. It isestimated that adding a single month of independence and health to America?s elder population would save$5 billion, while decreasing hospitalization and institutionalization 10% would save $50 billion annually.As a result, technology for home-centered approaches to healthcare, such as the proposed system, are necessary.In research terms, while the immediate focus is in the field of assistive robotics, this research will beextendable to general field and service robotics as much of the work is related to 3D perception.