Project Description:
The goal of our team's capstone design is to create an adaptable, easy-to-use, stable walker to assist the elderly in traversing both staircases and level surfaces. Existing solutions such as traditional walkers, canes, and stairlifts are insufficient. Our Multi-Surface Walker consists of a standard walker frame, linear actuators, an actuation and safety switch, batteries, and front stabilizers. Two 18” linear actuators serve as the front legs of the walker, allowing a user to manually adjust the front leg height using the actuation switch. Paired with the actuation switch is the safety switch, which prevents users from unintentionally changing the height of the walker’s legs. Finally, front stabilizers allow a user to maintain four points of contact while adjustments are made. We have demonstrated the basic functionality of this design through prototyping; and with a lighter, more compact final design, this walker will allow elderly users to navigate staircases safely and maintain a more independent lifestyle at an affordable price.
