Wheelchair control system using infrared sensors and tongue movements

Creating wheelchair control systems for people with spinal cord injuries, especially quadriplegics, is crucial for their rehabilitation. Since the tongue is easy to control and highly flexible, it has proven to be an excellent tool for steering wheelchairs. This study presents a new method that doesn't rely on magnets like older systems but instead uses the tongue to turn three infra-red (IR) sensors on or off, working as switches. The design includes three pairs of IR transmitters and receivers placed across from each other inside a small 3D-printed construct. This construct is worn on the face, and when the user places their tongue into a specific slot, it blocks the IR beam between the transmitter and receiver. This action allows the user to move the wheelchair in three directions: forward, right and left. To validate the system's practical applicability, it was integrated with and successfully tested on a full-sized electric wheelchair, demonstrating its effectiveness in a real-world scenario. To further illustrate the control concept during development, a miniature wheelchair model was also built using laser-cut technology for trials in a controlled environment. The results from both testbeds showed that this system works reliably, offering a simple and non-invasive solution for people with severe mobility limitations.