Aachen scientists develop ’smart’ wheelchair

Scientists at Aachen’s Technical University have developed a high-tech wheelchair to provide added independence to severely handicapped people both inside and outside of home.

Joystick-controlled wheelchairs have been available to the disabled who still have some movement in their arms and neck for years. Such chairs, however, are not an option for people suffering from even more serious disabilities, including those who can only move their head and facial muscles.

It was people suffering from these handicaps, those who are reliant on others and seldom get a chance to leave their home, researchers at the Technical University of Aachen concentrated on helping. They developed a wheelchair that can be steered by moving the head or the facial muscles thus allowing its users a little bit of independence.

Read full article: Deutsche Welle, 29 January 2007