Advancing Assistive Technology: Design, Fabrication and Preliminary Feasibility of a Glass-Fibre Reinforced C-Form Mobility Aid

Abstract

Background: Mobility limitations among elderly individuals and people with temporary lower limb impairments often reduced their ability to perform activities of daily living independently and increased their reliance on caregivers. Conventional walking canes primarily provided balance support but offered limited assistance for functional activities such as retrieving objects from the floor or lifting the affected limb onto a bed.  Aim: This study aimed to design a versatile walking cane to improve mobility, enhance independence and promote the safe performance of daily activities. Methods: A multifunctional prototype was developed using lightweight and durable materials, including an aluminum alloy frame, glass fiber components and a slip-resistant rubber tip. The height-adjustable cane incorporated a novel C-shaped distal design to facilitate energy storage and return during gait while providing additional support for functional tasks. The device also enabled users to retrieve objects without bending and assisted in lifting the lower limb during bed transfers. Results: In single-case preliminary testing, the C-form composite mobility aid demonstrated functional usability and improved task efficiency. The participant completed the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test in 20.3 s with stable transitional balance. "Gait velocity during the 10-Meter Walk Test increased by 15.9% (from 0.82 m/s to 0.95 m/s, relative to the age-60 normative mean of 1.24 m/s, accompanied by reduced trunk-lean compensation. Conclusion: This study successfully established the proof-of-concept for a novel glass-fiber-reinforced C-form walking cane featuring an aluminum core designed to enhance user stability, comfort, and ground-contact area while remaining lightweight