Researchers in Australia have developed a cutting-edge technology called acoustic touch that has the potential to transform the lives of individuals who are blind or have low vision. According to the World Health Organisation, there are approximately 39 million blind people worldwide, while an additional 246 million individuals live with low vision, which significantly impacts their ability to participate in everyday activities.
The next generation of smart glasses, developed by researchers from the University of Technology Sydney and the University of Sydney in collaboration with Sydney start-up ARIA Research, utilize acoustic touch technology to translate visual information into distinct sound icons. These smart glasses differ from conventional models, which use computer vision and other sensory information to convert the user’s surroundings into computer-synthesized speech.
Acoustic touch technology instead sonifies objects, creating unique sound representations as they enter the device’s field of view. For example, the sound of rustling leaves might signify the presence of a plant, while a buzzing sound could represent a mobile phone. Distinguished Professor Chin-Teng Lin from the University of Technology Sydney, a leading expert in brain-computer interface research, explains that this technology provides auditory feedback to empower users in identifying and reaching for objects with remarkable accuracy.
A recent study led by Dr. Howe Zhu from the University of Technology Sydney, exploring the effectiveness and usability of acoustic touch technology for assisting individuals who are blind, has been published in the journal PLOS ONE. The researchers tested the device with a group of 14 participants, including seven individuals with blindness or low vision and seven blindfolded sighted individuals who served as a control group.
The results of the study showed that the wearable device, equipped with acoustic touch technology, significantly enhanced the ability of blind or low-vision individuals to recognize and reach for objects without excessive mental effort. Dr. Zhu emphasized that the findings suggest that acoustic touch has the potential to provide a wearable and effective method of sensory augmentation for the visually impaired community.
This breakthrough research highlights the importance of developing assistive technology to overcome challenges faced by individuals with visual impairments, such as locating specific household items and personal belongings. The acoustic touch technology could open new doors for the blind or those with low vision, enhancing their independence and quality of life.
As advancements in the technology continue to be made, acoustic touch could become an integral part of assistive technologies, enabling individuals to access their environment more efficiently and effectively than ever before. This groundbreaking innovation holds great promise for creating a world that is more inclusive and accessible for all.
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- Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
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