Passive Unobtrusive Gait Monitor: An Economical Device to Detect Gait Anomalies and Falls
MAJD ALWAN, SIDDHARTH DALAL, STEVE KELL  - May, 2007

Medical Automation Research Center

The device is based on an ultra high sensitive optic-fiber sensor that is capable of detecting vibrations generated by a person walking tens of feet away on both carpeted and uncarpeted wooden and concrete floors. Preliminary analog signal processing and some digital signal analysis has shown that the signature walking signals picked up from the floor in field testing allow for the distinction between normal, limping and shuffling gait modes. The device can accurately and reliably measure the number of steps taken by the person during normal walk, thus pace can be calculated. The device can also automatically detect falls.

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