B-Shoe utilizes sensors and an embedded motion device to detect when a wearer loses balance. Using algorithms and a microprocessor, the motion device gently rolls the shoe backward until the person regains balance. The sensors ensure that the corrective action is taken only when needed. The projected was crowdfunded on Indiegogo.
It is based on the bio-mechanics of the human body, its center of gravity and base of support, a study of balance maintenance and disorders, and the backward step which healthy and younger people take to regain balance. Older people often do not take this step because of slowed reflexes.
As seniors fall on average once per year, we anticipate the many sensor based wearable technologies to provide balance monitoring and alerts, and attempt to improve gait.