SMART MOBILITY FOR CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF SMART WHEELCHAIRS WITH MECANUM WHEEL TECHNOLOGY

Abstract

Abstract: This study explores the direction, trends, and core focus of research on smart wheelchairs using mecanum wheel technology for children with cerebral palsy. Employing a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) guided by the PRISMA protocol, relevant articles were selected from the Scopus database covering publications from 2019 to 2024. Bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer was conducted to map author networks, keyword co-occurrences, and research trends. The review highlights a notable increase in publications beginning in 2017, peaking in 2019, reflecting rising academic interest in mobility solutions for children with special needs. Although publication frequency declined in subsequent years, a resurgence was noted in 2023 and 2024. A drop in 2025 signals ongoing research gaps, especially in addressing the needs of children with cerebral palsy. Keyword analysis reveals a shift from purely mechanical design toward integration of adaptive learning, skill development, and user support, with frequent terms such as need, skill, training, attitude, and educational software. The findings underscore the interdisciplinary nature of the field, with contributions from engineering, special education, rehabilitation, and psychology. The United States, United Kingdom, and India dominate in research output, with increasing contributions from Malaysia and Brazil. In conclusion, future smart wheelchair development should go beyond technical innovation to include educational and psychosocial considerations. Advancing this field requires sustained interdisciplinary and international collaboration to create inclusive, adaptive, and sustainable mobility solutions for children with disabilities.

Keywords: Cerebral Palsy, Smart Mobility, Chair wheels, Mecanum, Assistive Technology.