Voice controlled wheelchair integration rehabilitation training and posture transformation for people with lower limb motor dysfunction

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Stroke and other neurological disorders have an effect on mobility, which has a significant impact on independence and quality of life. The core rehabilitation requirements for patients with lower limb motor dysfunction are gait training, re-stand and mobility. OBJECTIVE: A wheelchair called ReChair was invented that seamlessly integrated mobility, gait training and multi-posture transformation with voice control. METHODS: The mechanical structure and control system of ReChair were designed. The overall evaluation included voice recognition and balance training test to quantitatively verify the performance of ReChair. RESULTS: The average success recognition rate of posture transformation by voice control can reach 91% to 96% in a quiet environment (20–30 DB). The balance training game is easy to operate and the score can be used as a quantified guideline for rehabilitation. CONCLUSION: The proposed rehabilitation wheelchair can realize multi-posture transformation and balance training by the voice control system.