IMU-IoT Integrated Foot Exoskeleton for Real-Time Gait Analysis and Monitoring

Post diabetic Foot Drop syndrome significantly impacts mobility and quality of life. To address this issue, a low-cost IMU-based exoskeleton was developed focusing on ankle movement and integrating IoT for real-time gait analysis and foot health monitoring. The system incorporated an MPU6050 sensor for motion tracking and a DHT22 sensor for temperature and humidity sensing, both of which are managed by an Arduino Uno and an ESP32 microcontroller. Sensor data was transmitted wirelessly to a cloud-based open-source platform (ThingSpeakTM). Real-time data logging and downloadable CSV format sensor data were integrated. A tendon-like pulling mechanism, actuated by a servo motor, was implemented to replicate the movement of the ankle. This prototype was constructed using low-cost materials, such as spare aluminium parts and 3D-printed TPU. Future improvements include durable structural materials, higher-torque motors, a personalized real-time data dashboard, and compact circuitry. Despite these limitations, this project demonstrates the feasibility of a smart, wearable, and affordable exoskeleton.