Empowering ability through AI-powered assistive technologies

Quick Overview

The Human Engineering Research Laboratories (HERL) developed several AI-powered assistive technologies, including a mobility-enhanced robotic wheelchair that navigates uneven terrain and a Virtual Seating Coach application that uses AI to teach proper posture and pressure relief maneuvers to prevent pressure injuries in wheelchair users.

Key Points: HERL develops AI-powered assistive technologies for people with disabilities, including a robotic wheelchair that can climb up to 25 cm curbs autonomously. The research lab created a Virtual Seating Coach application to teach proper seating posture and maneuvers, aiming to prevent pressure injuries common in wheelchair users. The KiRigami Rugby Chair, designed with input from athletes, is a lightweight (9 kg) sports wheelchair that can be customized for individual users. The development process for the robotic wheelchair components involves CAD modeling, laser cutting from single aluminum sheets, and uses AI for path planning and navigation, such as detecting curbs. The assistive robotic manipulator, demonstrated with user Alec, uses visual servoing and AI to identify objects and perform tasks like picking up a cup from a countertop. The Game of Inclusive Transportation is an educational board game developed by HERL to teach users and clinicians about navigating transportation barriers, with participants choosing mobility devices (like powered wheelchairs or scooters). The speaker estimates that the cost of the advanced wheelchairs they develop is significantly higher than commercial models, aiming to reduce the cost of their prototypes below $1000 or €1000.

Context: The presentation is from the "AI for Good Global Summit" (scheduled for 8-11 July 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland, according to the opening slide) and features a speaker from the Human Engineering Research Laboratories (HERL) at the University of Pittsburgh. The speaker, who uses a wheelchair, details several innovative technologies developed by HERL aimed at improving the independence and safety of individuals with disabilities through AI and robotics.