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Abstract

Grant Number:	5R43EY014490-02
PI Name:	LOPRESTI, EDMUND F.
PI Email:	atsciences@earthlink.net
PI Title:
Project Title:	Smart Power Assistance Module for Manual Wheelchairs

Abstract: DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): We propose to use power assistance as the basis for a Smart Power Assistance Module (SPAM) that provides independent power assistance to the right and left rear wheels of a manual wheelchair. The SPAM will detect obstacles near the wheelchair, and modify the forces applied to each wheel to avoid obstacles. For individuals with visual impairments that are unable to walk with a long cane or walker, the SPAM will provide safe travel by assisting the user to avoid obstacles. This research will build on the investigative team's previous experience with power assistance for manual wheelchairs and obstacle avoidance for power wheelchairs and rollators. Extensive outside evaluation of the SPAM will be provided throughout the course of the project by clinicians active in wheelchair seating and mobility.

Thesaurus Terms:
assistive device /technology, biomedical device power system, biomedical equipment development, vision aid, vision disorder
artificial intelligence, computer system design /evaluation, field study
clinical research, computer program /software, human subject, medical rehabilitation related tag

Institution:	AT SCIENCES
	5628 PHILIPS AVE
	PITTSBURGH, PA 15260
Fiscal Year:	2003
Department:
Project Start:	30-SEP-2002
Project End:	31-AUG-2004
ICD:	NATIONAL EYE INSTITUTE
IRG:	ZEY1

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