This Navigation Device is Worn Like a Bracelet or Necklace
Ellen Smith — August 3, 2017 — Lifestyle
These accessorized navigation wearables are offering partially sighted people greater independence by providing them with a reliable way to navigate point A to point B.
For some people with visual impairments, navigation can be a stressful, time-consuming and a potentially unsafe process, especially after dark, or in unfamiliar surroundings. Brunel University graduate Emilios Farrington-Arnas aimed to provide people with a safer travel accessory that was both unobtrusive and aesthetically pleasing. 'Maptic' is a pastel-clad device that can be worn like a bracelet or necklace. The smart accessory provides haptic feedback to the wearer, vibrating to inform them whether to turn left or right. The sensors are app-enabled, connecting to a phone's GPS system, tracking and responding to obstacles more effectively than other tools on the market.
For some people with visual impairments, navigation can be a stressful, time-consuming and a potentially unsafe process, especially after dark, or in unfamiliar surroundings. Brunel University graduate Emilios Farrington-Arnas aimed to provide people with a safer travel accessory that was both unobtrusive and aesthetically pleasing. 'Maptic' is a pastel-clad device that can be worn like a bracelet or necklace. The smart accessory provides haptic feedback to the wearer, vibrating to inform them whether to turn left or right. The sensors are app-enabled, connecting to a phone's GPS system, tracking and responding to obstacles more effectively than other tools on the market.
Trend Themes
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Accessible Navigation Wearables — Providing visually impaired people greater independence with reliable navigation wearable devices
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Smart Accessory Technology — Incorporating haptic feedback into wearable technology for safer and unobtrusive travel
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App-enabled GPS Tracking — Integrating smartphone GPS systems and sensors for more effective and responsive obstacle detection
Industry Implications
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Assistive Technology — Developing innovative wearable technology to assist and enhance the mobility and navigation of people with visual impairments
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Smart Jewelry — Combining fashion and technology to create stylish and discreet wearable accessories that utilize haptic feedback for navigation purposes
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GPS Tracking Devices — Exploring new methods of obstacle detection and navigational assistance by leveraging smartphone GPS and sensor technology
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