Solar Integrated Battery Powered Smart Wheelchair with Gesticulation, Impediment Identification and Voice Feedback using Arduino-Mega

Abstract

Individuals with physical disabilities often depend on manual wheelchairs, which restrict independent mobility and increase physical strain. This paper presents a solar-integrated, battery-powered smart wheelchair system designed as a cost-effective retrofit for conventional wheelchairs. The proposed solution incorporates a gyroscope sensor for gesture-based navigation, ultrasonic sensors for obstacle detection, and a DF Mini voice module for voice-controlled operation. A microcontroller-based embedded architecture i.e, Arduino Mega manages sensor fusion, motor control, and power regulation through a solar-charging module. The system aims to enhance user autonomy, ensure energy-efficient operation, and provide safer navigation in both indoor and outdoor environments. Experimental evaluation demonstrates the feasibility of the design and its potential application in assistive and industrial mobility solutions.