SmartCane is an electronic disability aid that improves upon the classic white stick design. Using ultrasonic ranging, the walking stick is able to communicate to people with vision impairments and blindness through the use of subtle vibrations, alerting them of obstacles in the distance. While the traditional white stick is only capable of detecting objects within a range of about half a meter, this smart stick identifies objects up to three meters away. As far as the sensitivity of the sensors, the SmartCane is able to detect the presence of a 3 cm pipe from about 3 meters away.
The walking aid is adjustable based on height and features an ergonomic grip for comfortable holding and tapping. The high-tech travel aid also includes a built-in battery that's rechargeable and lasts for about 10 hours at a time.
Smart Walking Aids
SmartCane Uses Vibrations to Notify Blind People of Approaching Obstacles
Trend Themes
1. Smart Walking Aids for the Blind - Developing smart walking aids with vibrations notifications to enhance the mobility of people with visual impairments.
2. Ultrasonic Ranging for Electronic Disability Aids - Innovating ultrasonic ranging in electronic disability aids to detect obstacles further than traditional white sticks.
3. Customizable and Rechargeable Smart Walking Aids - Developing smart walking aids that are easily adjustable to individual needs and have a long-lasting rechargeable battery.
Industry Implications
1. Assistive Technology - Introducing ultrasonic ranging technology in assistive tech products for mobility support of people with disabilities.
2. Medical Devices - Creating digital walking aids with vibrational notifications in the medical device industry to improve the lives of people with visual impairments.
3. Consumer Electronics - Designing electronic walking aids for individuals with visual impairments that are customizable and rechargeable for the consumer electronics market.