A ‘magic carpet’ which can immediately detect when someone
has fallen and can help to predict mobility problems has been demonstrated by
University of Manchester scientists.
Plastic optical fibres, laid on the underlay of a carpet,
can bend when anyone treads on it and map, in real-time, their walking
patterns.
Tiny electronics at the edges act as sensors and relay
signals to a computer. These signals can then be analysed to show the image of
the footprint and identify gradual changes in walking behaviour or a sudden
incident such as a fall or trip. They can also show a steady deterioration or
change in walking habits, possibly predicting a dramatic episode such as a
fall.