A Low-Vision Navigation Platform for Economies in Transition Countries

Area of Science:

• Assistive Technology
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Mobility impairments significantly disadvantage visually impaired individuals, increasing risks of social isolation and health issues.
• Current assistive technologies often lack comprehensive support for spatial cognition and personal freedom.
• There is a need for advanced, accessible solutions to enhance the quality of life for the visually challenged.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce VIS4ION, a novel wearable device and computing platform for the visually impaired.
• To enhance personal mobility, spatial cognition, and overall wellbeing for users.
• To develop a customizable, human-in-the-loop sensing-to-feedback system.

Main Methods:

• Development of a wearable platform with on-board microcomputers, human-machine interfaces, and sensory augmentation.
• Integration of mobile edge computing to enhance functionality and service delivery.
• Utilizing cloud-based microservices for reduced hardware/power demands and enhanced features like real-time communication.

Main Results:

• VIS4ION provides personalized mobility navigational services through a customizable platform.
• The system offers functional assistance via sensory augmentation and real-time feedback (haptic/audio).
• Mobile edge computing and cloud microservices enable scalable and adaptable functionalities.

Conclusions:

• VIS4ION addresses mobility challenges faced by the visually impaired, promoting independence and wellbeing.
• The technology integrates on-person navigation with cloud-based microservices for comprehensive support.
• This accessible technology has the potential for widespread adoption, including in transitional economies.