# Laser-Wielding Wheelchairs Lulea University's Laser Wheelchair Scans to Improve Sight By Olivia123 | Published 2011-05-19 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lulea-universitys-laser-wheelchair References: [gizmodo](http://gizmodo.com/5802974/laser-guided-wheelchair) & [gizmag](http://www.gizmag.com/sighted-wheelchair-taken-for-first-public-test-drive/18651/) This radical new wheelchair design will revolutionize the way visually impaired people see their environments. Developed in Sweden at the Luleå [University of Technology](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/jos-milln), this cutting-edge chair is set to hit the marketplace as soon as possible. Luleå University's laser wheelchair is structurally the same as [traditional chairs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/manual-wheelchair), with sturdy wheels and a durable leather seat. However, this chair's technology enables it to surpass all of its cushy competitors. Luleå University's laser wheelchair has a small [laser scanner](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lidar) on a post above the seat. This laser scans the environment in front of the chair as it moves, and quickly creates virtual 3D maps, which are sent to the user on a handheld interface. The user can then manually read the map and navigate around obstacles in front of them. Luleå University's laser wheelchair is a technological masterpiece with a powerful purpose. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 0.4/10 - Popularity: 2% | Activity: 2% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 90% men, 10% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Health](https://www.trendhunter.com/health) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Laser Scanning:** Development of laser scanning technology for visual impairment assistance presents opportunities for further research into expanding its applications. - **Virtual 3D Mapping:** The creation of virtual 3D maps for visually impaired persons presents an opportunity for more research into the development of user-friendly interface and automation programs. - **Smart Wheelchairs:** Further development of smart wheelchairs and mobility devices using innovative technology present the opportunity to improve the quality of life of individuals with physical disabilities. ### Where This Applies - **Assistive Technology:** The development of laser-wielding wheelchairs presents an opportunity for the assistive technology industry to provide more accessible and innovative devices for individuals with disabilities. - **Healthcare:** The healthcare industry can benefit from the development of laser-wielding wheelchairs as it presents opportunities for further research and technological advancements in disability mobility assistance technology. - **Technology:** Technological advancements in assistive mobility devices provide opportunities for further research and innovations in smart mobility devices for individuals with disabilities. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Sleek Robotic Wheelchair Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/robotic-wheelchair.md) - [Mind-Controlled Wheelchair Developments](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/jos-milln.md) - [LiDAR-Powered Visual Impairment Headsets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lumen-glasses.md) - [Upright Wheelchair Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kime-wheelchair.md) - [All-Terrain Electric Wheelchairs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/scewo-bro.md) - [Wheeled Robotic Aids](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wheeled-robotic-aid.md) - [Wheel-Free Assisted Mobility Chairs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/toyota-walk-me.md) - [Luxury Discrete Wheelchair Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/discrete-wheelchair.md) - [Transformable Lightweight Wheelchairs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wheeliy.md)