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Shape Changing Haptic Navigation Interface For Vision Impairment
Author: Imperial College London
Published: 2024/12/10
Publication Type: Observational Study – Peer-Reviewed: Yes
Topic: Blindness and Vision Loss (Publications Database)
Page Content: Synopsis Introduction Main Item Comments, Insights, Updates
Synopsis: The new device is believed to be the most advanced navigation tech of its kind for people with visual impairment.
Why it matters: The Shape device introduces a groundbreaking navigation technology that enables people with visual impairment to navigate as effectively as sighted individuals. Developed by researchers from Imperial College London, in collaboration with MakeSense Technology and the charity Bravo Victor, the Shape device uses haptic perception, bending to indicate direction and straightening when the user is correctly oriented, to leverage humans’ innate ability to interpret shapes through touch. The study showed that visually impaired participants using Shape performed navigation tasks as well as sighted participants and significantly better than with vibration technology, highlighting its potential to make life-changing improvements in mobility. This technology addresses the limitations of existing aids like white canes, guide dogs, and vibration feedback, offering a more intuitive and less tiring alternative, and is poised to revolutionize navigation assistance for the visually impaired with plans for real-world outdoor navigation integration [...]