ATDev Updates on Development of Autonomous Wheelchairs with Robotic Arms
- Published
- Source
- RoboticsBusinessReview.com
Assistive Technology Development Inc. (ATDev) is advancing its efforts to create autonomous wheelchairs integrated with robotic arms, enhancing independence for users. Founder Owen Kent highlighted the lack of technological progress in wheelchair design compared to other devices, emphasizing the need for innovation in assistive technology. The Robotic Assistive Mobility and Manipulation Platform (RAMMP), funded by ARPA-H and led by the University of Pittsburgh, aims to empower individuals with mobility challenges through robotics and AI.
The initiative focuses on developing a modern power wheelchair capable of performing tasks such as reaching, lifting, and even teleoperation features for users confined to bed. Kent noted that current wheelchair technology is outdated, and ATDev is committed to rebuilding the electronics and software architecture to foster innovation. The project aims to transform the wheelchair into a versatile support system for daily activities, including eating and drinking.
As ATDev continues its work within the RAMMP consortium, the industry will be watching closely for advancements in autonomous wheelchair technology. The integration of a coordinated robotic arm and a stable mobile base represents a significant step forward in assistive mobility solutions. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Original report
ATDev gives update on its journey building autonomous wheelchairs
RoboticsBusinessReview.com · Brianna Wessling & Eugene DemaitreThis briefing is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting and is provided for industry information and news discovery. The original report and source publication are credited and linked where applicable. RobotToday does not claim ownership of third-party source material.
Rights concerns? Contact [email protected] with the relevant URL and details. We will review the matter and take appropriate action where warranted.
More related news
- 1
- 2
-
3
RobotToday Weekly October 5 – 9, 2026 RobotToday · 1 day ago
- 4
- 5
- 6
- 7
- 8
- 9
- 10
- 11
- 12
Related Suppliers
VEDA International Robot R&D Center
Japan
Japanese robotics R&D association; joint venture of Tmsuk and 10 universities; developed RODEM assistive mobility robot.
Robosoft (Liquidation)
France
French autonomous mobile robotics pioneer founded 1985 in Bidart; known for Kompaï care robot, robuCAR UGV, and service robots for healthcare and defense.
Human Engineering Research Laboratories (HERL)
United States
Pittsburgh VA and University of Pittsburgh rehabilitation research center founded 1994; develops robotic wheelchairs and assistive mobility devices.
Tangent Robotics
United States
New York City spin-out of Columbia Engineering building tactile multi-finger robot hands and learned dexterity policies; raised a 4.5M pre-seed round in 2026.
Ambyon
Netherlands
Eindhoven health-tech firm founded 2022 whose Ambyon ONE robot delivers medication and lab samples in hospitals; active in four hospitals in 2026.
Piezo Sonic
Japan
Tokyo company making compact long-life high-torque ultrasonic (piezo) motors, with space-qualified variants and autonomous mobile robots.
Universal Tool & Engineering Co.
United States
US manufacturer of tube bending equipment, custom tooling, dies, and automation systems including robotic arm integration for aerospace and automotive.
Kathedra
United States
AI-guided upholstery robotics startup automating furniture manufacturing; Columbia University spinout based in North Carolina.
Changsha Youlong Robot Co., Ltd. 长沙优龙机器人有限公司
China
Changsha maker of AI-driven lower-limb exoskeletons and ankle rehabilitation training devices for elderly mobility support.
Micro-X Ltd.
Australia
ASX-listed Australian developer of miniaturized X-ray imaging systems using carbon nanotube NEX technology for medical and security applications.
Dexteleop 灵御智能
China
Beijing embodied-AI company selling TeleAvatar (TA series) teleoperated humanoid robots; raised nearly RMB 100 million in 2026 and ships 100 units a month.
Guident Corp.
United States
Boca Raton teleoperation company founded by Tekcapital in 2020, whose human-in-the-loop RMCC platform remotely monitors and controls autonomous vehicle fleets.
Robotics needs a service framework.
RSF defines a common language for robot service capability, lifecycle operations, certification pathways, and service-provider networks.
Join the RobotToday community on LinkedIn
Daily robotics news, in-depth analysis, conference highlights, and discussions with professionals worldwide.
