This research project aimed to create a biomechatronic system, "The Walking Cane," to assist elderly individuals with sarcopenia in rising from a chair independently. It involved analyzing and refining concept solutions, emphasizing user-centered design and economic considerations. The project enhanced my understanding of musculoskeletal systems, systemic design, and medical device implementation.

Biomechatronic system, assistive device, Sit to Stand movement, engineering design, user-centered design

The aim of this research project is to design a biomechatronic system that enables elderly individuals to independently rise from a chair. The paper focuses on addressing the difficulties faced by elderly individuals with sarcopenia, a condition characterised by muscle mass and function decline, leading to decreased mobility and increased risks. The project consisted of an analysis of three different concept solutions, highlighting the gaps in existing support handle mechanisms. The final design was selected from the concepts using the weighted criteria method, after which the design was further improved. The final concept, called The Walking Cane, utilises a walking cane as an assistive device for the Sit to Stand movement. Important aspects to further develop are adoption of the product by the target demographic and the motor capacity of the device.

Throughout this project, I gained valuable insights into the intricate functioning and coordination of the human musculoskeletal system and how this changes with age. Moreover, I gained experience with a systemic design approach, which was used to exhaust all potential solutions to the defined problem. To guarantee the creation of a device that seamlessly complemented the Sit to Stand movement and was tailored to the specific requirements of the target group, our focus was set on user-centered design. A material and cost analysis was performed to investigate the economic aspects of the solution. Furthermore, I acquired more knowledge about research into the implementation and adoption of innovative medical devices.