National Seating & Mobility (NSM) has signed an agreement to distribute LUCI, a smart sensor system for power wheelchairs.

LUCI, which combines stereovision, infrared, ultrasonic and radar sensors, detects drop-off hazards and can help with collision avoidance. A cloud-based communications system, used with the MyLUCI portal, enables LUCI to safely and privately communicate such issues as low battery charge or a chair tip-over to a consumer’s network of family and caregivers.

With this new distribution deal, LUCI will be available through NSM’s 170 locations throughout the country.

NSM’s CEO Bill Mixon said in a news announcement, “LUCI’s advanced technology and innovative design ensure safer navigation and greater mobility for our clients. We are proud to partner with the LUCI team on the national distribution of this revolutionary product.”

Darren Lowman, NSM’s Chief Supply Chain Officer, said in the announcement, “We are excited to bring this advanced technology to our ATPs and clients. LUCI’s cutting-edge sensor technology interfaces with the wheelchair control system to not only provide a safer driving experience for existing users, but also open the door to powered mobility for those who may have historically been limited to manual or attendant-controlled systems, ultimately transforming the level of mobility and independence for these users.”

Since its launch last summer, LUCI, headquartered in Nashville, Tenn., has become a mainstream and tech media darling. LUCI has been featured in Forbes, Fast Company, and Popular Science, and Time named the system one of the best inventions of 2020.

Barry Dean, LUCI’s CEO and co-founder with his brother, Jered, said of the new agreement, “NSM’s national, growing footprint and experienced network of ATPs will help bring LUCI’s technology to wheelchair users across the country. We look forward to working together to ensure safety, solve daily challenges and offer greater independence for wheelchair users.”