Feel-Beyond-Fingers device for the Blind

描述(申请人提供)：这个SBIR项目将为盲人创造一种微型的非侵入性设备，实际上是将触觉从指尖延伸到几英尺远。该设备对新近失明或完全失明的人最有用，对于定位和操作附近的物体，如器皿和固定装置，尤其是在不熟悉、危险或不卫生的环境中，其效用将是最深远的。 利用创新的红外距离传感技术，手指以外的感觉设备有几个显著的优势：它将比大多数定向和移动设备小得多，可以安装在腕带内；它不会干扰任何一只手的使用；它专门针对手臂长度和更远的传感需求，将完全由非常低的成本、大规模生产的组件构成。 第一阶段项目将以焦点小组活动开始，包括盲人和视障用户。本活动将确定接受的潜在障碍，并清楚地确定用户需求。在机械和电子开发之后，将制造并测试概念验证装置。一组视障参与者将接受使用该设备的培训。进行客观的绩效效果分析。此外，还将测量用户意见和感受的定性和定量测量，以确定该设备的可行性。

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): This SBIR project will create a miniature, non-intrusive device for blind individuals, to in effect, extend the sense of touch beyond the fingertips to several feet away. The device will be most useful for newly or completely blind individuals, and its utility will be most profound for locating and manipulating nearby objects, such as utensils and fixtures, especially in unfamiliar, hazardous, or unsanitary environments. Making use of an innovative infrared distance sensing technology, the Feel-Beyond-Fingers device has several significant advantages: it will be much smaller than most orientation and mobility devices, fitting within a wristband; it will not interfere with the use of either hand; it is specifically targeted to the needs of sensing at arms' length and beyond, and will be constructed entirely of very low-cost, mass-produced components. The Phase 1 project will begin with a Focus Group activity, including blind and visually impaired users. This activity will identify potential barriers to acceptance, and clearly identify user requirements. After mechanical and electronics development, a proof of concept device will be fabricated and tested. A group of visually impaired participants will be trained to use the device. Objective performance effects analysis will be performed. Additionally, qualitative and quantitative measurement of user opinions and feelings will be measured to establish feasibility of the device.