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Published on: April 15, 2020
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Biomechanics of Long Cane Use
Robert Wall Emerson1, Dae Shik Kim1, Koorosh Naghshineh2
1Department of Blindness and Low Vision Studies, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI, USA.
Journal of Visual Impairment & Blindness
|April 8, 2021
Summary
This study analyzed over 10,000 long cane trials for individuals who are blind. Findings reveal cane path deviations and inconsistent rhythm, though overall coverage remains high, offering insights into biomechanical performance.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Assistive Technology
Background:
- The long cane is a primary mobility tool for individuals who are blind.
- Decades of use highlight its importance in navigation and obstacle detection.
- This study focuses on biomechanical parameters of long cane use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe biomechanical measures from over 10,000 trials of long cane use.
- To analyze parameters influencing drop-off and obstacle detection.
- To understand the mechanical performance of basic cane skills.
Main Methods:
- Collected 10,069 trials from 101 participants across 11 studies (2007-2016).
- Utilized 3-D motion analysis equipment to capture biomechanical data.
- Investigated effects of participant and cane characteristics on detection performance.
Main Results:
- Participants' cane arcs deviated up to 20 cm from midline, averaging nearly a meter in width.
- Rhythm and step consistency were generally poor among participants.
- Average coverage rates for obstacle detection were approximately 85%.
Conclusions:
- While participants may show enhanced performance in research settings, biomechanical insights are valuable.
- Not centering the cane hand did not significantly reduce body coverage below 85%.
- Further analysis is needed to fully understand biomechanical variables in cane use.
