Development and validation of 2D-LiDAR-based gait analysis instrument and algorithm

Acquiring gait parameters from usual walking is important to predict clinical outcomes, including life expectancy, risk of fall, and neurocognitive performance, in older people. For comprehensive gait analysis, instruments such as marker-based motion analysis systems and walkways with pressure sensor arrays are necessary. Traditional instruments are bulky, complex, expensive, and intrinsically intrusive. Requirements of dedicated spaces for installation and specialized staff make it difficult to utilize traditional gait analysis instruments in most outpatient clinics. We present a novel gait analysis tool that is small, highly accurate, easy-to-use, and non-intrusive and is based on two-dimensional light detection and ranging technology. Using an object-tracking algorithm, we conducted a validation study of spatiotemporal tracking of ankle locations of subjects by comparing our tool with a gold standard modality. Our tool showed successful acquisition of gait parameters from usual walking motions and trackability with multiple targets in noisy conditions, including typical clinical environments.