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

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.