tim@comcon.uucp (Tim Brown) (10/02/90)
Index Number: 10759 I would like any and all ideas on the availabiltiy of systems or devices for assisting a blind person. Particularily in the area of travel, like walking mainly. What is out there? I know I can scan science mags (and do!) but I am looking for anything ground breaking that is possibly maybe newer or even older but often overlooked. For example is there anything that would allow a blind person to know that an obstruction 100 feet away is a building? Please use email as I cannot get this group. -- Tim Brown | Computer Connection | uunet!seaeast.wa.com!comcon!tim |
Henry.Kasten@f10.n130.z1.fidonet.org (Henry Kasten) (10/13/90)
Index Number: 11087 [This is from the Blink Talk Conference] Hi Tim, Several devices using applications similar to RADAR have had little or no success with Blind users. Most of these devices have a practical range of less than 10 feet. Many of the devices that I have seen emit some sort of noise which the users then learns to interpret. Others use vibrators, warning of an object close at hand. One of the most interesting appliances I have seen uses eye glasses. Above the bridge of the nose are two transmitters which send a signal along the line of sight of the wearer. Receivers at each temple pick up the bounced back signal and then through the magic of electrical circuitry, send a multitude of different sounds to each ear. With the varying warbles and sirens, I was able to hear leaves on a tree about 50 to 75 feet away. Yes i was able to determine the difference between different types of trees. I was also able to hear the metal window panes and glass of a large glass building. These glasses might let you know about a building 100 feet ahead, I don't know why you would need that much warning, my brakes work better than that. Why aren't the glasses more popular among the blind? Price is a major stumbling block. But more than price, I think the darn things give too much information. The clutter surrounding us can be extremely confusing when trying to decode the messages sent to us audibly. I think in the case of traveling, less is better. Hope this helps some. Henry -- Uucp: ..!{decvax,oliveb}!bunker!hcap!hnews!130!10!Henry.Kasten Internet: Henry.Kasten@f10.n130.z1.fidonet.org