IoT Based Wheelchair for Disabled Persons

Abstract

This project presents the development of an IoT-based wheelchair designed to enhance mobility, safety, and independence for individuals with disabilities. The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies allows for real-time monitoring and control of the wheelchair’s functions, making it smarter, more efficient, and user-friendly. Key features include GPS tracking, health monitoring, automatic obstacle detection, voice and mobile control, and smart home integration, all aimed at improving the user’s quality of life.The wheelchair is equipped with sensors that monitor the user’s vital signs (e.g., heart rate, body temperature) and alert caregivers or healthcare providers to any abnormalities. Additionally, fall detection and automatic alerts ensure that immediate assistance is provided in case of accidents. Real-time location tracking enhances security, and obstacle avoidance systems prevent accidents by automatically adjusting the wheelchair’s path.This IoT-based wheelchair also offers remote control features through a mobile application, allowing the user to control their environment, such as adjusting lighting or controlling doors, directly from the wheelchair. It provides maintenance alerts, notifying users and caregivers of potential issues, thereby reducing the risk of mechanical failure.Overall, the IoT-based wheelchair is designed to promote greater independence, safety, and health management for users, while providing efficient support for caregivers, and paving the way for future advancements in assistive technology.

Introduction

The project focuses on designing and developing an IoT-enabled smart wheelchair to enhance mobility, safety, and health monitoring for individuals with disabilities. Unlike traditional wheelchairs, this smart wheelchair integrates multiple control options (joystick, mobile app, voice commands), health sensors (heart rate, temperature), obstacle detection, GPS tracking, and emergency alert systems to improve user autonomy and safety.

Related works highlight advances in autonomous navigation systems, brain-computer interfaces for thought-based control, and health monitoring integration, all aimed at increasing independence and quality of life.

Methodology involved gathering user needs, designing a modular system using the ESP32 microcontroller, integrating sensors and controls, and developing a mobile app for remote monitoring. Prototype testing showed promising results with room for improvement in voice recognition and sensor placement. Ethical considerations and limitations, such as GPS accuracy and smartphone dependency, were addressed.

Hardware components include:

• Arduino microcontroller for central control,

• MPU6050 accelerometer/gyroscope for motion detection,

• MAX30102 heart rate sensor for health monitoring,

• 7V Li-Po battery for power,

• ESP32/ESP8266 modules for wireless connectivity,

• HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensors for obstacle detection.

Conclusion

The IoT-based wheelchair for disabled persons is a significant step forward in enhancing mobility, safety, and independence through smart technology. By integrating multiple control options, real-time health monitoring, obstacle detection, GPS tracking, and emergency alert systems, the wheelchair addresses the key challenges faced by individuals with physical disabilities.This project demonstrates how IoT can bridge the gap between technology and accessibility, empowering users with greater control over their movement while providing caregivers with vital information to ensure their well-being. The smart wheelchair not only reduces dependency on others but also fosters a sense of security and confidence for both users and their families.In conclusion, the IoT-enabled wheelchair serves as a powerful tool in improving the quality of life for disabled individuals. With further enhancements — such as AI integration for predictive health insights and adaptive navigation — this innovation holds the potential to revolutionize assisted mobility solutions.

References

[1] AuthoA. H. Z. Othman, A. A. Z. Othman, M. I. F. Mohd, and M. Z. A. AbidinSmart “Wheelchair Based on Internet of Things (IoT)” [2] S. A. Al-Fuqaha, M. Guizani, and M. Mohammed \"IoT-Based Intelligent Wheelchair Control System Using Wireless Sensor Networks\" [3] M. Shamsher and P. T. Rajesh \"Design and Development of IoT-based Intelligent Wheelchair\" [4] IoT Wheelchair Control System Based on Multi-Mode Sensing and Human-Machine InteractionAuthors: Jianwei Cui, Linwei Cui, Zizheng Huang, Xiang Li, Fei Han Published in: Micromachines, 2022 [5] Finger-Gesture Controlled Wheelchair with Enabling IoTAuthors: Muhammad Sheikh Sadi, Mohammed Alotaibi, Md. Repon Islam, Md. Saiful Islam, Tareq Alhmiedat, Zaid Bassfar

Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Manoj Prabu M, Arun Kumar S, Abuhasan A. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.