Chinese Innovator Wang Ning Wins Hackathon with AI Mind‑Controlled Wheelchair

Wang Ning, a 33‑year‑old from Shenzhen, China, was diagnosed with a 13‑centimetre spinal‑tumour in 2020 and underwent two surgeries that left him fully paralyzed twice. After extensive rehabilitation and support from his wife, he regained the ability to stand and walk.

Self‑taught in artificial intelligence and brain‑computer‑interface technology, Wang and his wife entered a Shanghai‑based hackathon hosted by RedNote in April 2026. Within 48 hours they built a prototype wheelchair that responds to brain signals, using facial‑muscle detection, brain‑wave recognition and AI‑driven algorithms. The device won first prize in the hardware category and a 50,000‑yuan cash award.

The prototype was later demonstrated at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai, where Wang noted that the system can also control lights, cameras and air‑conditioners and that a companion navigation app is under development. The achievement highlights the potential of brain‑computer interfaces to improve mobility for people with disabilities.