# Wearable Navigation Systems This Wearable Device Can Guide People with Visual Impairments By Ell Smith | Published 2017-06-14 | Social Good Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wearable-navigation-system References: [psfk](https://www.psfk.com/2017/06/wearable-acts-as-a-constant-guide-for-the-visually-impaired.html) [MIT](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wearable-kit) researchers have developed a prototype for a [wearable navigation system](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wati) that can guide people with visual impairments. The device is to be wrapped around the users chest and uses a 3D depth-sensing camera to alert wearers of obstructions in their path through an [electronic braille pad](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nemonic-dot). The braille pad helps provide context for the users, informing them of the specifics of the object through a simple labeling system that recognizes tables as 't' or chairs as 'c.' The device, which frees users from having to use a cane, offers an added dimension of protection and independence among the visually impaired community. The technology uses haptic sensors to help the wearer observe their surroundings, enhancing mobility and autonomy. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 1.4/10 - Popularity: 10% | Activity: 23% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Social Good](https://www.trendhunter.com/socialgood) > [Social Business](https://www.trendhunter.com/socialbusiness) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Wearable Navigation Systems for Visual Impairments:** The development of wearable navigation systems for visually impaired individuals presents a disruptive innovation opportunity to improve their mobility and independence. - **3D Depth-sensing Cameras for Object Detection:** The integration of 3D depth-sensing cameras in wearable devices opens up possibilities for disruptive innovation in object detection technology, benefiting various industries. - **Haptic Sensors for Observing Surroundings:** The use of haptic sensors in navigation systems creates a disruptive innovation opportunity to enhance sensory perception and improve mobility for individuals with visual impairments. ### Where This Applies - **Assistive Technology Industry:** The development of wearable navigation systems presents disruptive innovation opportunities in the assistive technology industry, improving accessibility for visually impaired individuals. - **Healthcare Industry:** The integration of 3D depth-sensing cameras in wearable navigation systems offers disruptive innovation opportunities in the healthcare industry to assist visually impaired patients and improve their quality of life. - **Technology Industry:** The use of haptic sensors for observing surroundings presents disruptive innovation opportunities within the technology industry, enabling advancements in navigation systems and wearable devices. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Haptic Navigation Wristbands](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/haptic-navigation-wristband.md) - [AI-Powered Mobility Aids](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/navicane.md) - [AI-Powered Smart Canes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/smart-cane-2.md) - [Wearable Non-Verbal Assistive Systems](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wearable-assistive-system.md) - [AI-Powered Visual Co-Pilots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/biped.md) - [Assistive Navigation Systems](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/navigation-system.md) - [Robotic Visual Impairment Guides](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/handheld-guidance-device.md) - [Wearable Assistive Smart Eyewear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lighthouse-tech.md) - [LiDAR-Powered Visual Impairment Headsets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lumen-glasses.md)