GDP Research

Products manufactured by GDP Research (listed alphabetically)

1. MINIGUIDE

   Miniguide is a vibrating and audible electronic mobility aid designed for use by individuals who are blind, deaf blind, or have low vision. This ultrasonic device detects obstacles from 1.5 to 26 feet away to augment information from other mobility aids, such as a cane or dog guide. Two sensors covered by mesh at the front of the unit send and receive the echo-location signals. A durable plastic casing covers the rest of the unit. The aid vibrates to indicate the distance to objects; the faster the vibration rate the nearer the object. A single push button is used to switch the aid on or off and also to change settings. The aid has modes for detecting objects at distances of 26, 13, 6.5, 3, or 1.5 feet. This device can assist users in avoiding obstacles such as parked cars, poles and street furniture; detecting overhanging obstacles such as tree branches; locating a person at a sales counter; locating the end of a line; locating doorways and gaps; determining if elevator doors are open; navigating around tables, chairs and office environments. POWER: Uses one 123A battery. DIMENSIONS (HxLxW): 0.75 x 3 x 1.4 inches. WEIGHT: 2 ounces.

2. MINIGUIDE US (MODELS 1-07006-00 & 1-07007-00)

   Miniguide US is a vibrating and audible electronic mobility aid designed for use by individuals who are blind or deaf blind or have low vision. This hand-held electronic travel device uses ultrasound to detect objects, and gives tactual or auditory feedback by vibrating or chirping more rapidly as the user approaches an object. The device can help a blind person avoid obstacles and overhangs, locate landmarks or items such as mailboxes or trash cans, and find open paths through crowds at a range of 20 inches to 26 feet depending on the size of the object. This customized version of the Miniguide (see separate entry) has an extra push button for access to the gap finding modes. The device comes with a print guide book (model 1-07006-00) or a braille guidebook (model 1-07007-00). An optional instructor's remote unit allows instructors to receive the same tactual feedback as their students. The remote unit attaches to the main unit with a 12-foot-long cable (included), and comes with a Remote Unit User's Guide on cassette and in print. POWER: Uses triple-A battery (included). OPTIONS: Reference sheet pack (5 print, 5 braille); instructor's remote unit.