In Brazil, a wearable device called NavWear was developed to help people with visual impairment. It is a backpack equipped with a camera and a mini-computer that recognizes obstacles and conveys information about them through vibrations on the shoulder straps. This approach helps people orient themselves in space without relying on hearing. The developers deliberately chose tactile signals so as not to interfere with sound perception, because hearing plays a key role for people who have lost vision.
NavWear complements the white cane, expanding the area of perception and making movement safer. The device is designed to be convenient to use; its design was developed with input from blind users and specialists in rehabilitation. The testing involved 11 people with visual impairment, and the results showed an increase in confidence and a reduction in the number of collisions with obstacles.
The development of NavWear is an important step toward inclusive solutions for people dealing with loss of vision.
Source: Tech Xplore
