A Smart Walking Stick for Elderly People – Part 2 : Design Configuration, Technical Analysis and Prototyping

Abstract

This paper is the second of two, which focuses on the use of walking sticks as the mobility aid tools that are used by the elderly or people with mobility limitations to maintain their balance and stability while they carry out their daily activities, enabling them to live a life of independence. With the advancement of technology, a modern walking sticks can be found aplenty on commercial platforms. However, choosing a suitable walking tool may not be easy. Ease of function, specific features and value for money are among important factors that influence potential users in choosing their walking aid. For this project, a Smart Walking Stick is developed. It is equipped with an auto fall alarm sensor and a Global Positioning System (GPS) is used to detect the location and later, send notifications to closely related people via mobile devices in the event of an emergency. This newly developed Smart Walking Stick aims to be a device that can improve mobility and accessibility. Notably, this device is also developed with the desire to contribute to Malaysia’s IR4.0 and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) ambitions, specifically in helping people with physical difficulties that may have barriers to mobility. Along with the development of digitalization, this innovation also links the user with the Internet of Things (IoT) to increase their safety. This paper covers detail on design configurations and technical analysis conducted on the prototype, while the first paper highlights the results and outputs from the market survey and concept generation.