This project stems from two main concepts: sensory augmentation, and sensory substitution. These terms, coined not by me but by others, both convey the possibility of allowing properly functioning senses to supplement or replace non-functioning or impared senses.
More specifically, this project deals with using touch and hearing senses to give a visually impared user an augmented ability to sense the distance of objects.
The premise of this project is that a primary function of vision is to detect distance. An unimpared individual uses vision to analyze and interact with objects around them. Navigation is also a notable and important secondary function involving distance perception.
It is assumed that visually impared individuals could benefit from being able to more easily detect the distance of inanmiate objects in their immediate environment.
It is further assumed that vision impared inviduals will be less likely to venture outside of known and familiar environments unassisted, and are therefore more restricted and less priviledged in their daily lives.
One final assumption, unique perhaps to this project, is that visually impared users may be willing to accept and use sensory augmentation devices that are developed by an individual, dealing with the shortcomings of that developer, if said devices are more affordable and easier to obtain.
The device in question would ideally be small and light enough to fit into one hand comfortably, and could be aimed or moved around with ease over an extended period of time. It would be directional, with one end feeling larger than the other, forcing it to naturally be pointed forward. There would be one button and one or two switches. The button would provide immediate normal operation while held. The first switch would be equivalent to holding down the button, for use over an extended period. The second switch would change the feedback mode. The device would also have an earphone jack and included earbud. Inside the device would be a 9 volt battery, logic board, and sonar array. The sonar array would face forward, and the battery would be at the rear.
The way the device works is simple: point the device in any direction while holding the button down, or while the device is switched on, and the user would receive feedback. The device would emit a sonar pulse and high speed, and measure the return to calculate the distance of objects in the immediate environment, a maximum of six to twelve feet from the user. The device would then convert that distance into a series of sounds or vibrations that the visually impared user would recognize, to help them create a mental map of their surroundings. These sounds would only be heard by the user.
This concept of using sonar to produce an image, or in this case a mental image, is not novel. The largest benefit and novelty would be to have such a device affordable for a larger majority of visually impared users. Widely available components make this a reality, even in made-to-order situations.
The device could replace, in part, the use of a white cane, in that it would provide feedback suitable for mobility and navigation. For situations where a white cane is not ideal, the device might be of benefit. The device would have an increased range when compared to a white cane, and would stow easily when not in use.
Sonar, in this scale, is not ideal for object or distance detection. Sonar may not work well with rounded objects or corners. Speed is acceptable, but not responsive enough for a detailed image when using a sweeping motion.
Future versions might combine sonar and IR light sensors; both being low-cost enough, and non-hazardous such as a laser solution.
The device is in working prototype stage. The prototype is small enough to be packaged in the desired form factor. The prototype is powered by a 9 volt battery. Packaging or casing still needs to be made, and wiring and connections need to be miniaturized to fit. Software is installed on the device, but trials and feedback from actual visually impared users needs to be obtained for improvements to be made. All of the components used are available retail. The software that runs the device will be made available for free.
The target cost of all of the components is less than two hundred dollars. With more custom development, the component cost could be brought down significantly, possibly under fifty dollars. My plan is to assemble the devices for free, and provide them completed at-cost, to visually impared users in the United States. Alternatively, I plan to make assembly plans and instructions, complete with ordering sources and information, for free online.
I am an avid user of technology. It is my belief that technology is only useful when it can benefit the human experience. Much of the technology we develop services only the majority of the human population. Those who do not fall within that vast majority are often under-served by technology.
While I do not have any serious physical imparement, and have never known a person with a physical imparement, I have always felt a strong desire to create or contribute to technology that services people with such imparements. As ideas flow through my mind, I gasp onto ones that seem attainable and worthwhile. This project is one of many; but one that I have actually put a small amount of work into.
It is my hope that this and future projects might be of some service to the communities of indivduals who are my less thought-of brothers and sisters in this journey through life.
Contact Joe at tfurrows at g mail.