| Abstract / Kurzbeschreibung: |
The DFKI iWalker is the prototype of a walker equipped with electric brakes, wheel encoders, a laser range sensor, and a small control PC. The laser range sensor enables the iWalker to measure the distances to the objects in the environment. Thereby, the iWalker can provide a variety of services. By controlling the electric brakes, it can help the user keeping clear of obstacles. In addition, by using a laser-scan-based self-localization algorithm, the iWalker can determine its position inside a building and provide location-based services. For instance, it can guide the user to a desired target location by displaying navigation instructions on the screen (as in a car navigation system) or by using the electric brakes to indicate the direction the user has to walk to. |
