Jurnal Rekayasa Mesin
Vol. 21 No. 1 (2026): Volume 21, Nomor 1, April 2026

Design and Development of a Dual-Mode Smart Wheelchair Prototype with Obstacle Detection for Zimbabwe

Munotyaani, Savior (Unknown)
Bawono, Nugroho Mamayu Hayuning (Unknown)
Tayisepi, Nicholas (Unknown)
Mapindu, Innocent (Unknown)
Anggoro, Paulus Wisnu (Unknown)
Bawono, Baju (Unknown)
Pamosoaji, Anugrah Kusumo (Unknown)
Adi, Albertus Yustinus Novi Misgi Prabowo Adi (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
01 May 2026

Abstract

Conventional and electric wheelchairs are often unable to fully meet the needs of users with upper-body movement limitations, particularly in terms of device control and surrounding environment detection. In addition, existing smart wheelchairs are generally expensive, difficult to customize, and have not been widely accepted by users. This study aims to design a smart wheelchair that integrates voice control, joystick control, and an obstacle detection system to enhance user safety, accessibility, and independence.The design process was carried out systematically through functional decomposition, concept development, and design selection for the frame structure, control system, and motor drive circuit components. The system was developed using an Arduino microcontroller, Voice Recognition Module V3.1, HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensors, an analog joystick, and an L298N motor driver. The prototype successfully integrated two control modes with an aluminum frame capable of supporting loads of up to 150 kg. The obstacle detection system operated effectively within a 50 cm radius to automatically prevent collisions. However, the voice recognition module still encountered technical issues, such as errors during voice training, indicating the need for more reliable hardware solutions.The results demonstrate that the proposed design has significant potential to support the mobility of people with disabilities through enhanced safety features and flexible control mechanisms. Further development is required to improve the reliability of the voice recognition system and to expand the application of assistive technologies for improving users’ quality of life.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

rekayasa

Publisher

Subject

Mechanical Engineering

Description

Rekayasa Mesin(d/h MANDEGANI) diterbitkan sejak 1997, dengan frekuensi 3 kali setahun. Misi : media komunikasi bagi dosen, praktisi, dan ilmuwan tentang karya ilmiah (scientific article) hasil-hasil penelitian, survei, studi kasus dan telaah pustaka yang erat hubungannya dengan teknik mesin, ...