Smart Carpet Detects Falls

Researchers recently demonstrated a new concept for carpeting that could not only identify when a person has fallen, but also identify subtle changes in the way they walk to predict potential future problems.

Optical fibers, which bend under pressure, are embedded into the carpet underlayment. The signals are relayed to a computer where a reconstruction software algorithm known as tomographic imaging is used to map walking patterns in real time. The technology could also be used to detect chemical spills or fires, and easily be retrofitted to living spaces or hospital wards.

It has been estimated that more than half of hospital admissions in patients over 65 are due to falls, and that 30 to 40 percent of older adults living in assistive communities fall each year.