A Wearable Two-Sensor O&M Device for Blind College Students
By Nicholson, John; Kulyukin, Vladimir; RESNA 29th International Annual Conference 2006,Publication Date: 2006
Paper discusses the WayFinder, which is a wearable two-sensor orientation and mobility device designed for people with visual disabilities at Utah State University. The system consists of a global positioning system (GPS) unit worn on one shoulder, and a digital compass on the other shoulder. A computational unit sits in the front of the user’s chest, as it features an attached numeric keyboard that allows the user to enter commands and respond to prompts from the system. The system also features headphones, which allow the user to hear the system and give commands and prompts. One student with a visual disability participated in a preliminary evaluation test, as the system was able to provide instructions in terms of when and which direction to turn, while it also reported the compass direction. Upon arrival at a destination, the system provided final instruction on how to enter the building. The participant was successfully able to complete four routes with the system. Implications for design improvements are discussed. This research was conducted at the Department of Computer Science Assistive Technology Laboratory at Utah State University.
Published by: Rehabilitation Engineering & Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA) (Website:http://www.resna.org)
