Design of an Active Walking-aid for Elderly People

Abstract

This paper describes the preliminary design of a light, high stability, robotic system for elderly assistance. The mechanisms used for such assisting devices must exhibit complex mechanical functions that may change during the use. The design has also to be adapted to the morphology and/or pathology. Taking these constraints into account, the design of a robotic walker is presented which provide support during sit to stand transfer and during the walk. 1