AI-Powered Wheelchairs Aim to Enhance User Autonomy

Researchers showcase advancements in smart wheelchair technology at CSUN Assistive Technology Conference.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 5:53am

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A surge in research on AI-powered wheelchairs is focused on bridging the gap between current robotic systems and the unique skillsets of wheelchair users. Prototypes showcased at the CSUN Assistive Technology Conference in Anaheim, California, represent a shift towards both semiautonomous and fully autonomous navigation, enabled by advanced sensor suites and sophisticated algorithms.

Why it matters

For many wheelchair users, navigating the world often requires exceptional spatial awareness and maneuvering skills that frequently surpass the capabilities of existing robotic systems. The development of smart wheelchairs aims to empower users with greater independence and freedom, building upon their existing abilities rather than attempting to replace them.

The details

Researchers at the German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence (DFKI) are pioneering advancements in wheelchair technology, including semiautonomous systems that retain joystick control and fully autonomous models that respond to natural language commands. These smart wheelchairs are equipped with a suite of sensors, such as lidars, 3D cameras, and odometers, enabling them to map environments and avoid obstacles. The integration of drone-based cameras adds another layer of perception, providing color and depth information to enhance safety and precision.

  • The CSUN Assistive Technology Conference took place in Anaheim, California.

The players

Christian Mandel

Researcher at the German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence (DFKI) and co-lead of the smart wheelchair prototypes.

Serge Autexier

Researcher at the German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence (DFKI) and co-lead of the smart wheelchair prototypes.

Pooja Viswanathan

CEO of Braze Mobility, a company focused on developing affordable and accessible add-on technologies for existing wheelchairs.

Louise Devinge

Biomedical research engineer at IRISA in France, who highlights the importance of careful sensor management in smart wheelchair design.

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What they’re saying

“Cost remains a major barrier. Funding systems often require clear evidence of value and safety before supporting advanced assistive technologies.”

— Pooja Viswanathan, CEO, Braze Mobility

“The more sensing, computation, and autonomy you add, the harder it becomes to ensure robust performance.”

— Louise Devinge, Biomedical Research Engineer, IRISA

What’s next

Christian Mandel predicts that smart wheelchairs could be ready for mainstream adoption within the next 10 years, as the REXASI-PRO project continues to push the boundaries of intelligent navigation and autonomous response.

The takeaway

The development of smart wheelchairs aims to empower users with greater independence and freedom, building upon their existing skills and abilities rather than attempting to replace them. Addressing challenges like cost, reliability, and the human factor will be crucial in ensuring these technologies are accessible and meet the diverse needs of wheelchair users.