Scholarlink

<p>In this study, we design and test a smart accessory for the visually impaired that can be attached to the white cane and help the user avoid above-waist obstacles that cannot be detected by a conventional white cane. The device integrates multimodal capabilities, combining ultrasonic distance measurement and haptic and auditory feedback to enhance spatial awareness. To design the device, 103 blind Mexicans, their caregivers, and teachers were interviewed to obtain a clear understanding of their specific needs. People from different socioeconomic strata and from various states of the country were considered. Once designed, 7 units were manufactured to conduct usability tests. Results indicate a significant 29% increase in walking speed among users, attributed to the real-time, multisensory feedback provided by the system. Notably, none of the participants experienced accidents or collisions, even while navigating unfamiliar or dynamic environments. This enhanced mobility confidence, demonstrated by the increased walking speed, suggests a potential improvement in the quality of life for visually impaired individuals by decreasing the likelihood of walking-related accidents. The ability to attach the device to most existing white canes contributed to its positive reception among participants, as individuals often have a personal attachment to their canes. Given the favorable outcomes of the testing, plans are underway to manufacture additional devices and conduct larger-scale trials to further assess their effectiveness and usability of this multimodal assistive technology.</p>

错误：搜索内容不能为空，请输入英文关键词
错误：关键词超出字数限制，请精简
高级检索

Smart obstacle-detecting accessory for white cane improves safety and efficiency of outdoor walking for the visually impaired: pilot study

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2025年11月9日

查看全文
  • Ana Gabriela Gallardo-Hernandez,
  • Nahum Quijas-Hernandez,
  • Matias Enrique Peraza-Reyes,
  • Nicolas Guzman-Navad,
  • Martha Gonzalez-Gorgonio,
  • Claudia Estefania Ramirez-Hernandez,
  • Ron Leder,
  • Cristina Revilla-Monsalve,
  • Jesica Escobar

摘要

In this study, we design and test a smart accessory for the visually impaired that can be attached to the white cane and help the user avoid above-waist obstacles that cannot be detected by a conventional white cane. The device integrates multimodal capabilities, combining ultrasonic distance measurement and haptic and auditory feedback to enhance spatial awareness. To design the device, 103 blind Mexicans, their caregivers, and teachers were interviewed to obtain a clear understanding of their specific needs. People from different socioeconomic strata and from various states of the country were considered. Once designed, 7 units were manufactured to conduct usability tests. Results indicate a significant 29% increase in walking speed among users, attributed to the real-time, multisensory feedback provided by the system. Notably, none of the participants experienced accidents or collisions, even while navigating unfamiliar or dynamic environments. This enhanced mobility confidence, demonstrated by the increased walking speed, suggests a potential improvement in the quality of life for visually impaired individuals by decreasing the likelihood of walking-related accidents. The ability to attach the device to most existing white canes contributed to its positive reception among participants, as individuals often have a personal attachment to their canes. Given the favorable outcomes of the testing, plans are underway to manufacture additional devices and conduct larger-scale trials to further assess their effectiveness and usability of this multimodal assistive technology.