A Multi-Sensor Fusion Approach for Smart Wheelchair Navigation Using IoT and Artificial Intelligence

Abstract

The development of intelligent assistive technologies has become increasingly essential in enhancing the mobility and independence of individuals with physical disabilities. This research presents a smart wheelchair system that integrates Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) with a multi-sensor fusion approach to enable efficient and autonomous navigation. Traditional wheelchairs often require manual operation, which can be challenging for users with severe mobility impairments. The proposed system addresses this limitation by incorporating an array of sensors—ultrasonic sensors, infrared (IR), gyroscope, accelerometer, and GPS—whose data are fused using a Kalman filter algorithm to ensure accurate real-time decision-making for obstacle detection, localization, and path planning. The AI module, built using lightweight deep learning models, enables intelligent environment interpretation and user interaction through voice and gesture recognition. The IoT framework allows for seamless data transmission to a cloud-based monitoring system, enabling caregivers and healthcare professionals to track location, system status, and user safety in real time. Additionally, a mobile application interface enhances user control and connectivity, further improving the overall user experience. Simulation and prototype testing demonstrate the system’s capability to navigate complex indoor and outdoor environments with over 92% obstacle avoidance accuracy and minimal response latency. The integration of sensor fusion and AI significantly improves navigation precision compared to single-sensor models. This project not only showcases the potential of emerging technologies in assistive devices but also offers a scalable solution adaptable to individual user needs. Future work will focus on optimizing energy consumption, improving AI adaptability through reinforcement learning, and conducting extended real-world trials. The proposed smart wheelchair system represents a meaningful step toward empowering individuals with mobility impairments, providing them with increased autonomy, safety, and a higher quality of life through intelligent technology integration.