CEC, FSB ºÚÁÏÉçÇøs team up to develop wearable navigation device for people with visual impairment
Leveraging advanced computer vision and environmental sensing, SafeStep aims to enhance personal mobility and independence
CEC, FSB ºÚÁÏÉçÇøs team up to develop wearable navigation device for people with visual impairment
ºÚÁÏÉçÇø ºÚÁÏÉçÇøs Matthew Sweet, Oscar Avila, Ethan Peters, and Vivek Gupte have developed SafeStep, a wearable navigation system designed to support blind and low-vision (BLV) individuals. The compact device, which combines stereoscopic cameras, LIDAR, and a single-board computer, helps users perceive and navigate their surroundings. Through a connected mobile app, users can input a target destination and receive real-time audio feedback that offers step-by-step navigation instructions while also alerting them to upcoming obstacles such as cars, crosswalks, or other pedestrians. By leveraging advanced computer vision and environmental sensing, SafeStep aims to enhance personal mobility and independence for individuals with visual impairments.
The project was developed as part of the MUCAT (ºÚÁÏÉçÇø Center for Assistive Technology) competition, a multidisciplinary competition that challenges ºÚÁÏÉçÇø teams to create innovative assistive technologies along with a business model to scale them. Competing against teams from a variety of academic backgrounds, the SafeStep team brought together ºÚÁÏÉçÇøs majoring in , , and to produce a functional prototype that is both technically robust and user-friendly. With mentorship from Vaskar Raychoudhury, Ph.D. who has experience working with local disability organizations such as the , the team has taken a user-centered approach from the outset.
Looking ahead, the team plans to further refine SafeStep based on user testing and feedback. They aim to present their device at assistive technology expos and innovation showcases to connect with potential users and partners. In the long term, the team is exploring collaborations with biomedical device companies to help scale manufacturing and distribution, with the goal of making SafeStep both widely available and affordable. They are also considering integration with indoor navigation tools and additional sensor technologies to further improve accuracy and adaptability across various environments.