Mobile Robot Solutions from GeckoSystems Ensure Collision-Proof Movement of Wheelchairs

GeckoSystems has declared that its robotic solution for wheelchairs has successfully completed the Alpha testing phase.

GeckoSystems has been providing mobile robot solutions for safety and for secure movement of wheelchairs. The novel solution ensures collision proof movement of wheelchairs. The CEO of Gecko explained that the new solution ensures that the wheelchair moves without colliding with moving or stationary obstacles independent of the position of the joystick.

Around 2 million people in the United States are dependent on wheelchairs for getting on with their routine activities. A market research conducted by Gecko revealed that there is an increase in demand for collision-proof wheelchairs, which are easy to control and steer. Collision-proof wheelchairs are needed at facilities that take care of the elderly, where collisions can be a cause of physical trauma for them. The robot designed by Gecko for care of the elderly is called CareBot. The CareBot has completed Alpha testing and is now scheduled to undergo Beta testing in 2012. A Japanese company by name Imasen has provided Gecko with a second wheelchair, which they intend to use for conducting additional research and return it to Japan after completing first-hand evaluation. With the launch of the Kinect depth camera from Microsoft, the cost of manufacturing the robot has reduced further and safety has also improved. The new software that was developed for collision free movement is called GeckoSteer and it is arranged between the mechanical joystick and GeckoNav. GeckoSteer is best suited for compensation of movements associated with tremors, spasticity and other movements that arise due to setting in of debilitating diseases in wheelchair users.