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| An overview of the aid for the elderly (Photo: special). |
An impressive innovation was developed by students of the Mechanical Engineering Study Program, Faculty of Engineering, University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM). They are Angga Dwi Aprilio and his team, Fajar Trikusuma Wardana, Nurul Aisyah Ramadhani, and Yussi Pradita Budianingsih. Coming from a desire to help people in need, especially the elderly and accidents who suffer from weakness on their legs, this team succeeded in developing a sophisticated and innovative walking aid.
Using a micro-controller motor drive method, these aids are designed with technology that combines comfort, safety, and ease of use. Angga, his nickname, explained that the inspiration to create the work came from his experience seeing many elderly people who have difficulty moving freely. As well as those with weak legs who have to rely on the help of other people or tools. According to him, this is not practical.
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“This tool involves a quite complex program. We designed this walking aid using a motor that is programmed through a microcontroller. It is also equipped with various sensors, such as motion and weight sensors. These sensors will send data to the programming system, which then calculates the angle and speed of the user's steps,” he explains.
The process of making this aid was done in a university laboratory and involved students who were studying programming and mechanics. The goal was to synergize various practical experiences and produce the best product. This innovation successfully passed the Student Creativity Program-Creative Initiative (PKM-KC).
“In developing this tool, we also considered the economic aspect. With this tool, users are expected to reduce the frequency of medical examinations that require additional costs. The device is designed to provide automatic stability, so that if the user walks at an angle, the device will automatically adjust to maintain balance,” he added.
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As well as aiding mobility, the device is also designed for therapy, such as being used to repair weak tendons and muscles. With this added therapeutic feature, users not only get walking assistance but can also undergo recovery while using the device.
“The therapy is designed so that users can use the device while undergoing recovery. It will also be equipped with a longer-lasting battery,” he adds.
Angga and his team also want to mass-produce the device and collaborate with various health institutions. Thus, it can help more people get a better quality of life.
“As for now, the device is still in the process of further development. Hopefully, it can help people who need walking aids, such as the elderly or those with leg weakness, to be able to move without having to use a cane. Thus improving their quality of life by allowing them to move more freely and confidently,” he concluded. (bal/wil/put)
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