In this paper, we present an adaptive walker system designed to address limitations in current intelligent walker technologies. While recent advancements have been made in this field, existing systems often struggle to seamlessly interpret user intent for speed control and lack adaptability across diverse scenarios and terrain. Our proposed solution incorporates high-resolution tactile sensors, deep learning algorithms, IMU sensors, and linear motors to dynamically adjust to the user's intentions and terrain changes. The system is capable of predicting the user's desired speed with an error margin of only 20.99%, relying solely on tactile input from hand and arm contact points. Additionally, it maintains the walker's horizontal stability with an error of less than 1 degree by adjusting leg lengths in response to variations in ground angle. This adaptive walker enhances user safety and comfort, particularly for individuals with reduced strength or cognitive abilities, and offers reliable assistance on uneven terrain such as uphill and downhill paths.

This study presents ErgoPulse, a system that integrates biomechanical simulation with electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) to provide kinesthetic force feedback to the lower-body in virtual reality (VR). ErgoPulse features two main parts: a biomechanical simulation part that calculates the lower-body joint torques to replicate forces from VR environments, and an EMS part that translates torques into muscle stimulations. In the first experiment, we assessed users’ ability to discern haptic force intensity and direction, and observed variations in perceived resolution based on force direction. The second experiment evaluated ErgoPulse’s ability to increase haptic force accuracy and user presence in both continuous and impulse force VR game environments. The experimental results showed that ErgoPulse’s biomechanical simulation increased the accuracy of force delivery compared to traditional EMS, enhancing the overall user presence. Furthermore, the interviews proposed improvements to the haptic experience by integrating additional stimuli such as temperature, skin stretch, and impact.