Development of an automated wheelchair guided by a magnetic ferrite marker lane.

An automated wheelchair with a guide sensor, guided by a magnetic ferrite marker that is resistant to the presence of dirt, is described. The wheelchair permits the severely disabled, as well as the older population, to move about freely, both indoors and outdoors. This is due to the simple operation involved (pushing a button), and a magnetic ferrite marker lane which is minimally influenced by dirt or other nonmagnetic materials. For increased comfort, a nonlinear signal-processing circuit and pulse-steering drive method have been developed to provide a smooth running operation. In addition, a function that provides for stopping at desired destinations has been added for convenience, and a collision prevention function using infrared sensors has been added for safety.