Feel-Beyond-Fingers device for the Blind

描述（由申请人提供）：这个SBIR项目将为盲人创造一个微型的非侵入式设备，实际上，将触觉从指尖延伸到几英尺远。该设备将是最有用的新的或完全失明的个人，其效用将是最深刻的定位和操纵附近的物体，如器具和固定装置，特别是在不熟悉的，危险的，或不卫生的环境。 Feel-Beyond-Fingers设备利用创新的红外距离传感技术，具有几个显著的优点：它比大多数定向和移动设备要小得多，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及更远距离的传感需求，并且将完全由非常低成本的大规模生产组件构成。 第1阶段项目将从焦点小组活动开始开始，包括盲人和视力受损用户。这项活动将确定潜在的接受障碍，并明确确定用户要求。在机械和电子开发之后，将制造和测试概念验证设备。一组视力受损的参与者将接受使用该设备的培训。将进行客观性能影响分析。此外，将对用户意见和感受进行定性和定量测量，以确定器械的可行性。

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.