Wearable sensor networks supported by mobile devices for fall detection

Abstract

This work describes a system developed for fall detection, based on a wearable sensor unit, a mobile application and a website. The sensor device is a small printed circuit board that includes an inertial unit, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) module and a microprocessor, protected by a plastic case designed with ergonomics and aesthetics in mind. The sensor continually analyses the elderly's movement and orientation to detect a fall. In case it happens, the sensor communicates via Bluetooth with the personal smartphone that sends an alert to the caregivers or family members configured in the smartphone. Additionally, if an internet connection is available, the smartphone also updates the website log with a message that includes the time and location (if outside home). The website may also send an email to the addresses previously defined with the information of the fall, as well as the log of the previous ones.