Wearable Evasion Device

Unique ID

TO84617

Technology Status

Available

Technology Readiness Level

TRL6

Published on

22nd Aug 2018

Updated on

5th Dec 2018

Technology Overview

The system relates to a device used for visually impaired people having a severely reduced sense of vision and thus burdened a lot to carry out safe navigation. The evasion system consists of arm, knee, and wrist wearable devices which allow the user to detect and evade obstacles. The device comprises microcontroller-based embedded design. It is capable of measuring the distance to nearby objects, through the use of ultrasonic sensors/transducers, which work by generating high frequency sound waves and evaluating the echo which is received back by the sensors. By the time the object is being detected, the device will response through motor operation which puts pressure on the wrist and above the ankle of the user. A sound monitor also gives off an alarm tone that warns the user. It is concluded that the device is efficient in detecting obstacles; moreover this device is highly appealing as a wearable as it is ergonomically and aesthetically designed.

Technology Features & Specifications

Designed for an all round wearability. The Wearable Evasion Device (WED) is intended to be worn on the different parts of the body, specifically on the arm, wrist, and knee, thereby compensating for the lessened visual ability of the user.

Calibrated for optimal reaction of time and speed. The WED is composed of several key components that are optimized in order to react responsively according to the range of distance (3ft maximum) programmed.

Echolocation for navigation. The WED is similar to the process of echolocation, wherein it uses sound waves and echoes to determine where objects are in space.

Constant Data Correction. The device continously separates the data (echo received) into two logical decisions: (1) obstruction detected; (2) no obstruction detected.

Orientation and Re-direction. The main goal of the WED is to promote self-directed movements and independent navigation for the ocularly impaired users.

Continuous Data Gathering. Is a continuous process that enables the device to pick up the raw data from its surroundings. This is a spot-on process that is running as soon as the device is turned-on.

Error and Bug Free. WED is designed to be as fully functional as possible. Since the device's main users are those ocularly challenged, their safety and top-most functionality of the device are the main priorities of the research team.

System Development. The source code of the device is developed in C-based programming language.

Buzzer Equipped. Haptic Capable. The device are outfitted with a sound emitting module and a vibrator module.

Potential Applications

Since the WED uses the technology of echolocation, its application can also be veered to security and defense. Military usage is one strong suit that the WED could be used for. Detection of obstacles in low visibility areas and pitch black premises. Security in terms of detecting intruders. Search and rescue operations like SONAR or RADAR.

Customer Benefits

The Wearable Evasion Device aims to support and improve the current mobilization of persons with visual disability. It is a low cost and flexible indoor and outdoor navigation system that senses and detects obstacles; a wearable device that can be worn on the hands, arms and knees. The device efficiently detects any obstruction along the path of the wearer with a distance read range of up to 500cm. It notifies the wearer through sound and tactile vibration feedback that serve as an indicator to the user, usually requiring the user to perform some sort of scanning action. The entire device is powered by a 3.3V rechargeable battery supply. This is a simple, lightweight and flexible evasion system designed and developed in order to enhance the autonomous navigation of visually impaired and blind people.

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