Assessment of a simple obstacle detection device for the visually impaired.
A simple obstacle detection device, based upon an automobile parking sensor, was assessed as a mobility aid for the visually impaired. A questionnaire survey for mobility needs was performed at the start of this study. After the detector was developed, five blindfolded sighted and 15 visually impaired participants were invited to conduct travel experiments under three test conditions: (1) using a white cane only, (2) using the obstacle detector only and (3) using both devices. A post-experiment interview regarding the usefulness of the obstacle detector for the visually impaired participants was performed. The results showed that the obstacle detector could augment mobility performance with the white cane. The obstacle detection device should be used in conjunction with the white cane to achieve the best mobility speed and body protection.
Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Chaoyang University of Technology, No. 168, Jifeng E. Rd., Wufeng District, Taichung, 41349, Taiwan, ROC. Electronic address: cllee@cyut.edu.tw.
Cheng-Lung
CL
Lee
Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Chaoyang University of Technology, No. 168, Jifeng E. Rd., Wufeng District, Taichung, 41349, Taiwan, ROC.
Chih-Yung
CY
Chen
Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Chaoyang University of Technology, No. 168, Jifeng E. Rd., Wufeng District, Taichung, 41349, Taiwan, ROC.
Peng-Cheng
PC
Sung
School of Occupational Safety and Health, Chung Shan Medical University, No. 110, Sec. 1, Jianguo N. Rd., Taichung 40201, Taiwan, ROC.
Shih-Yi
SY
Lu
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008124:Locomotion; D008297:Male; D055096:Optical Devices; D012656:Self-Help Devices; D019987:Persons with Visual Disabilities; D055815:Young Adult
Obstacle detection; Travel aid; Visually impaired