Future Directions

If we had more time and resources, we would conduct more testing and expand our test subject group to include people who are actually visually impaired to get a more accurate measure of how our end user would use the device. They would be able to test our product in tandem with whatever assistance they currently use to see if it adds significant value to their spatial awareness. Variable bin sizes may also be a good route to explore, like different modes to suit different environments such as one where you want to focus on finer details. We would also hope to use better components to improve the build quality of our device, potentially including onboard processing and rechargeable batteries. We could also add supplementary features like haptic feedback.

Multi-Point LiDAR

The two front-facing single-point LiDARs are effective in obtaining information with regards to proximity, but multipoint LiDAR sensors will obtain significantly more information, allowing for the creation of a 3D space, which would be output through a more advanced audio feedback protocol. Additionally, certain Multi-Point LiDAR cameras have a 360 degree field of view allowing for detailed information all around the user. This LiDAR upgrade would require a more developed audio protocol to effectively utilize the increase in spatial information.

Tactors

Currently, the feedback is being provided as audio feedback, utilizing varying pitches and beeping frequencies. However, for individuals who are hard of hearing or are unable to differentiate these sounds, tactile feedback may prove to be more effective. This feedback can be accomplished with the use of tactors, which are small actuators that vibrate against the skin to provide a physical stimulus in response to an electrical input. Small tactors could be embedded into the headband on the left and right and use a similar protocol to the audio feedback; the tactors will increase in intensity as the user gets closer to an obstacle and will decrease when they are far. Additionally, aside from completely replacing the audio protocol, the tactors can enhance it by providing more detailed information when the user is close to hitting an obstacle. When a user is getting into the danger zone, the tactors can activate, and the combination of the tactile and audio feedback will encourage a quick response from the user to move in a different direction away from the obstacle.

Open Back or Transparency Headphones

The implementation just uses any pair of wireless stereo earbuds or headphones, with our prototype using over headphones. However, these headphones and earbuds tend to block out the ambient noise, which is not favorable as the user should still be able to easily hear their environment. New headphones have transparency functionality, in which the headphones have microphones on the outside to pick up the environmental sound and amplify it to the user, similar to a hearing aid. This technology takes out the risk of wearing closed-back headphones or in-ear earbuds. Alternatively, open-back headphones and open ear earbuds allow the user to still hear their surroundings, as they are designed to not block the ear canal. Both of these technologies can allow for greater safety while using the device.

page created by: Irene Lee