Wheelchair Guidance & Assistance App

Abstract:

The “Wheelchair Guidance & Assistance App” is a mobile application designed to assist individuals who use wheelchairs by providing navigation, accessibility information, and other support services. The app offers features such as real-time navigation tailored for wheelchair users, accessibility ratings for public places, and emergency assistance options. By leveraging GPS and crowd-sourced data, the app helps users find the most accessible routes, locate nearby amenities like wheelchair-accessible restrooms, and avoid obstacles like stairs or steep inclines. This app aims to enhance the mobility, independence, and safety of wheelchair users, improving their overall quality of life.

Existing System:

Currently, wheelchair users face significant challenges in navigating public spaces due to a lack of comprehensive accessibility information. While some navigation apps provide general routing, they often do not account for the specific needs of wheelchair users, such as avoiding stairs, narrow pathways, or inaccessible buildings. Existing accessibility guides are often outdated, incomplete, or difficult to use on the go. In addition, there is limited integration of emergency assistance features specifically designed for wheelchair users, making it harder for them to get help quickly in case of an emergency.

Proposed System:

The “Wheelchair Guidance & Assistance App” proposes a solution to these challenges by offering a specialized navigation system that considers the unique needs of wheelchair users. The app provides real-time, accessible route planning, highlighting paths that are wheelchair-friendly and avoiding obstacles. It also offers detailed accessibility ratings and reviews of public spaces, contributed by the user community. In case of emergencies, the app includes features like one-touch SOS alerts, which can notify nearby contacts or emergency services. The proposed system is designed to be a comprehensive, user-friendly tool that significantly improves the daily mobility and safety of wheelchair users.

Methodologies:

1. User Registration and Profile Management:
   • Accessibility Preferences: During registration, users can set their specific accessibility needs, such as avoiding slopes over a certain grade or requiring wider pathways.
   • Personal Information: Collect essential details like emergency contacts, preferred assistance options, and location sharing preferences.
2. Accessible Route Planning:
   • Real-Time Navigation: Use GPS to provide real-time, turn-by-turn navigation tailored for wheelchair users, avoiding stairs, steep inclines, and other obstacles.
   • Dynamic Routing: Implement dynamic routing that adjusts based on real-time conditions, such as temporary construction or weather that might affect accessibility.
   • Points of Interest: Highlight accessible points of interest (e.g., ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms) along the route.
3. Crowdsourced Accessibility Data:
   • Community Reviews: Allow users to rate and review the accessibility of public spaces, such as restaurants, parks, and buildings, providing valuable information for others.
   • Obstacle Reporting: Enable users to report obstacles like broken elevators or blocked pathways, which can be shared with the community to improve navigation for all users.
4. Emergency Assistance:
   • SOS Alerts: Provide a one-touch SOS button that sends alerts to pre-set emergency contacts or local emergency services with the user’s location and specific needs.
   • Real-Time Location Sharing: Allow users to share their real-time location with trusted contacts during their journey, enhancing safety.
   • Medical Information: Optionally store critical medical information that can be shared with emergency responders if needed.
5. Accessibility Information Database:
   • Public Space Ratings: Maintain a database of public spaces with detailed accessibility ratings, including information on entrances, seating, restrooms, and parking.
   • Frequent Updates: Regularly update the database through user contributions and verification to ensure accuracy and relevance.
6. User Interface:
   • Customizable Display: Offer a customizable interface that allows users to prioritize the information most important to them
   • Voice Commands: Integrate voice command functionality for hands-free navigation and assistance, making it easier for users with limited mobility.

Technologies Used:

1. Android SDK: providing access to location services, notification systems, and UI components tailored for accessibility.
2. Google Maps API:
   • Custom Mapping: For creating wheelchair-accessible routes and integrating accessibility data into the navigation system.
   • Location Services: To provide real-time tracking and dynamic routing based on the user’s current location.
3. Firebase:
   • Realtime Database: For storing and syncing accessibility reviews, obstacle reports, and emergency contact information across devices.
   • Cloud Messaging: To send notifications for SOS alerts, route updates, and other critical messages.
4. Crowdsourcing Platform: Implement a system for collecting and verifying user-contributed data about the accessibility of public spaces, with moderation tools to ensure accuracy.
5. Voice Recognition: Utilize Android’s voice recognition APIs to enable voice command functionality, making the app more accessible to users with limited hand mobility.
6. Encryption and Security:
   • Data Encryption: To protect sensitive user information, including location data and medical records.
   • SSL/TLS: For secure data transmission between the app and backend servers.