The Gestural Interface for Remote Spatial Perception (GIST) is a wearable guide for the visually impaired. The technology, presented by the University of Nevada, features a Microsoft Kinect sensor that analyzes the wearer's surroundings.
The information is communicated to the user through spoken advice on how to navigate the environment. The wearable device reacts and responds to hand gestures and movements of the user, strengthening the user's spatial perception in the process. Holding out a closed fist in front of you, for example, will cause the device to identify if someone is standing or moving in that direction, as well as calibrate the distance to them.
As the technology advances, researchers believe that it will be able to identify objects and people using a visual database.
Wearable Visual Guides
'GIST' is a Guide for the Visually Impaired
Trend Themes
1. Wearable Visual Guides - The development of gesture-based wearable devices for visually impaired individuals can revolutionize navigation assistance.
2. Spatial Perception Enhancement - Advancements in spatial perception technology can enable visually impaired individuals to navigate their surroundings with greater ease and confidence.
3. Object and People Recognition - The integration of visual databases in wearable devices can allow for real-time identification of objects and people, enhancing the visually impaired user's understanding of their environment.
Industry Implications
1. Assistive Technology - The development of wearable visual guides presents disruptive innovation opportunities within the assistive technology industry.
2. Healthcare - The application of spatial perception enhancement technology can greatly improve the independence and quality of life for visually impaired individuals in the healthcare industry.
3. Augmented Reality - The integration of object and people recognition capabilities in wearable devices can drive advancements in the augmented reality industry, opening up new possibilities for visually impaired users.