SmartCane, obstacle detector

Description

Smartcane device is an electronic travel aid which fits as handle of the white cane. As white cane can only detect obstacles up to knee height, Smartcane compliments its functionality by detecting obstacles from knee to head height. It detects obstacles using sonic waves and the presence of obstacles is conveyed through intuitive vibratory patterns. It is powered using rechargeable Li–ion battery like cell phone and can be used in both indoor and outdoor navigation modes. It has been designed to accommodate varying types of user grips which are commonly used by visually challenged.

Smartcane users have found that it is an extremely useful device in detecting different types of obstacles such as tree branches, side of a truck, hanging cloth strings, protruding equipment from walls of an office corridor such as air conditioners, railings, construction equipment and accessories. In other words it helps users to navigate independently without sighted assistance even in unstructured environments. Many users found it extremely useful in avoiding awkward collisions, way finding in narrow pathways and even to detect movements of human beings and animals.

It’s varying intensity tactile feedback helps in pro-active planning of mobility pathways without collisions. Users of smartcane found the device easy to use, ergonomically convenient, easy to train and adapt to. After a few days of use and adaptation, user found that it reduces travel time as compared to use of normal white cane.