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
--
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