Fuzzy logic-based gait phase detection using passive markers

Abstract

With the advancement in technology, gait analysis plays a vital role in sports, science, rehabilitation, geriatric care, and medical diagnostics. Identification of accurate gait phase is of paramount importance. The objective of this paper is to put forward a novel approach via passive marker-based optical approach that automatically recognizes gait subphases using fuzzy logic approach from hip and knee angle parameters extracted at RAMAN lab at MNIT, Jaipur. In addition to stance phase and swing phase, the approach is capable of detecting all the subphases such as initial swing, mid swing, and terminal swing, loading response, mid stance, terminal stance and preswing. The prototype of the system provides an effective and accurate gait phase that could be used for understanding patients’ gait pathology and in control strategies for active lower extremity prosthetics and orthotics. It is an automated, easy to use, and very cost-efficient yet reliable model.