MUMBAI, India, Sept. 14 -- Intellectual Property India has published a patent application (202641100566 A) filed by Saveetha Institute Of Medical And Technical Sciences on August 20, 2026, for Smart Orthopedic Walking Stick With Electrotactile Feedback For Spinal Posture Correction.
Inventors include Ms. Megna; Dr. Arangasamy; Dr. Suji; and Dr Ramya Mohan.
The application for the patent was published on September 11, 2026, under issue no. 37/2026.
Abstract: SMART ORTHOPEDIC WALKING STICK WITH ELECTROTACTILE FEEDBACK FOR SPINAL POSTURE CORRECTION ABSTRACT Smart orthopedic walking sticks with electrotactile feedback represent an innovative assistive technology designed to improve spinal posture and gait stability in rehabilitation patients. The system integrates posture-monitoring sensors, such as inertial measuremeW,units,(1M1.10, pressure. sensors, and accelerometers, within a lightweight walking stick to continuously track the user's spinal alignment, weight distribution, and walking pattern. Real-time data are processed through an embedded microcontroller, which identifies deviations from the optimal posture. When abnormal bending, leaning, or imbalance is detected, the device delivers gentle electrotactile feedback through skin-contact electrodes on the user's hand or forearm. This sensory cue prompts immediate correction of spinal posture without causing discomfort or interrupting natural movement. The smart stick aims to support patients with back pain, postural deformities, and mobility impairments by offering biofeedback-based re-training during daily walking. By combining orthopedic support with intelligent feedback, the system enhances rehabilitation outcomes, encourages user independence, and provides a cost-effective tool for long-term posture correction and fall-risk reduction. Poor spinal posture is one of the leading causes of chronic back pain, joint stress, and reduced mobility among elderly individuals and patients undergoing orthopedic rehabilitation. Although conventional walking sticks provide physical support, they do not actively assist in correcting improper posture while walking or standing. A microcontroller processes sensor data in real time and activates electrotactile stimulators to deliver gentle, safe skin-level electrical cues whenever undesirable forward bending or sideways leaning is detected. These cues prompt the user to instinctively correct their posture without requiring conscious attention or visual reminders. The proposed smart walking stick operates as a standalone assistive device, offering both orthopedic support and posture correction, making it suitable for elderly users, post-surgery patients, and individuals with musculoskeletal disorders. Date Signature Name Or. B. RAMESH PRINCIPAL SIMATS ENGINEERING SAVEETHA INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL AND TECHNICAL SCIENCES Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences rn I OFFICE N T SMART ORTHOPEDIC WALKING STICK WITH ELECTROTACTILE FEEDBACK FOR SPINAL POSTURE CORRECTION COMPLETE SPECIFICATION • Sensing Module: Integrated IMU (accelerometer + gyroscope) continuously measures body tilt angles with +2 accuracy. • Processing Unit: Microcontroller-based control system performs real-time posture analysis and deviatio_n detection with c_us t_om _iz a-b le calibration _ . _ • Feedback System: Electrotactile stimulation electrodes (or vibration motors in prototype) provide immediate corrective feedback based on posture deviation severity. • Power System: Rechargeable lithium-ion battery with onboard charging module, providing 6-10 hours of continuous operation. • Mechanical Design: Lightweight adjustable orthopedic walking stick with ergonomic handle, embedded electronics enclosure, and safety-isolated wiring for user comfort. Lk. B. RAMESH Date PRINCIPAL SIMATS ENGINEERING Signature SAVEETHA INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL AND TECHNICAL ;RENG,Es Name Saveetha Institute of Medical and Teltdences D p, 0 F E 4 ,,a.= kl „ SMART ORTHOPEDIC WALKING STICK WITH ELECTROTACTILE FEEDBACK FOR SPINAL POSTURE CORRECTION DESCRIPTION The Smart Orthopedic Walking Stick with Electrotactile Feedback is a next-generation assistive device developed to support mobility while actively promoting healthy spinal posture. The walking stick incorporates an inertial measurement unit (IMU) to continuously monitor the user's upperbody orientation during_walking_and_standing._A micro_controller processes this sensor data and compares it with a pre-calibrated reference posture to detect forward bending or sideways leaning. The device is powered by a rechargeable battery and features an ergonomic, height-adjustable design suitable for elderly individuals and patients undergoing orthopedic rehabilitation. By integrating support, monitoring, and feedback into a single portable system, the invention helps reduce spinal strain, enhances balance and confidence while walking, and encourages long-term healthy posture habits. PRINCIPAL SIMATS ENGINEERING Signature SAVEETHA INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL AND TECHNICAL SCIENCES Name Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences Or. B. RAMESH Date H [Li b. 1,,j 2lc: SMART ORTHOPEDIC WALKING STICK WITH ELECTROTACTILE FEEDBACK FOR SPINAL POSTURE CORRECTION CLAIM We Claim • We claim a smart orthopedic walking stick that integrates spinal posture monitoring and mobility assistance within a single device. • We claim the use of an inertial measurement unit (IMU) to detect real-time upper-body orientation and posture deviation while the user is walking or standing. • We claim a microcontroller-based decision system that compares sensed posture with a calibrated reference and identifies forward bending or lateral leaning beyond predefined thresholds. • We claim an electrotactile feedback mechanism that delivers gentle skin-level electrical stimulation to prompt immediate and subconscious correction of improper spinal posture. • We claim a compact and ergonomic walking stick design that houses sensing, control, and feedback modules while maintaining orthopedic comfort and usability for elderly and rehabilitation patients.
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