What is the solution?

To more easily and more safely navigate the world around them the visually impaired would use a device that provides information about their surroundings via physical feedback. As well as sensing the user’s immediate surroundings, the device would also interface with Google Maps to provide instructions to navigate unfamiliar routes.  Once the product is made, some level of training will be necessary in order for the product to be used effectively. This training would include an audio tutorial with the product about how to properly use it. Support could be provided to help train the users. The distribution of the product would most likely be handled by collaborating with hospitals and other medical organizations, as they would have the necessary expertise and logistics to ensure that the product is delivered to where it is most needed. Charity organizations may also be utilized to help overcome as many economic barriers to the product as possible.

Where can the solution be applied?

This technology should be able to work anywhere, including dark locations or places with poor visibility. It would be most effective in locations that have Google Maps support if the user was to require directions. While it can work both indoors and outdoors, it would be most useful in outdoor environments where using a cane for navigation may not be insufficient. The majority of its effectiveness comes from touch, which shouldn’t be affected by many geographic situations. However, the Google Maps support would be handled through audio, which means that instructions could be missed in very loud locations. The best place to test this program would be in an urban or suburban environment because most of the potential users live in urban or suburban environments and the device features are better equipped to handle these environments. One of the main features of this program is its ability to assist in navigation of unknown locations and help safely handle traffic. Both of these situations occur very commonly in urban environments. Ultimately, this program should be able to work and be deployed anywhere.

When could the solution be implemented?

Preferably the solution could be deployed as soon as possible, after it is finished and bug tested. To expand further, it would first be required to develop and test the program internally until it performs as expected and as needed. Once it operates as expected, the product team would collaborate with either a medical or charity program that specializes in giving care to those with extreme visual impairments. Ideally this program would also be situated in an urban environment to best test traffic navigation. From there test versions of the program would be issued so that it can be tested by the general public. These beta testers would be trained on how to use the product and provide feedback about its effectiveness. This feedback would be incorporated to refine the product until it is as good as possible. Only once the product is fully developed and tested would it be released to the public in full.