Wearable technology to help with visual challenges - two case studies

Stud Health Technol Inform. 2015:217:526-32.

Abstract

Today as embedded computing technology and sensors become cheaper and smaller wearable technologies experience an unprecedented boom. This article presents two wearable systems that aim to help people with low vision and the blind in performing everyday tasks and doing sports. DIGIGLASSES is a project aimed at creating a pair of augmented reality digital glasses that present controlled light and contrast levels and marks selectable features on the field of vision to aid in everyday tasks. BLINDTRACK is guidance system that uses wireless localization and an innovative haptic feedback belt to guide blind runners along the running track. Both systems are briefly presented along with the most relevant technical details and user feedback where applicable. Both projects were funded by the EU FP7. Corresponding author V. Kalman: viktor.kalman@ateknea.com.

MeSH terms

  • Communication Barriers
  • Ergonomics
  • Eyeglasses*
  • Feedback
  • Humans
  • Telemetry / instrumentation*
  • Visually Impaired Persons*
  • Wireless Technology*