MORE | Spring 2020

Gait Sensing using Fabric based Soft Inflatable Actuators and Force Haptic Feedback

The physical therapists commonly make use of their visual prowess to ensure that the patients adapt correct walking patterns by observing for postural abnormalities and cuing when necessary. For better rehabilitation and reducing the workload on physical therapists, gait sensing and haptic feedback integrated into the shoe insole can be a viable option. This work introduces an insole with gait sensing using fabric-based inflatable sensors and haptic feedback. Design, fabrication, characterization of the sensors and haptic actuators are carried out along with participant testing. The benefits of using fabric inflatable sensors compared to existing gait sensing methods are also explored.