NextGuide (Smart Cane for the Blind)

2023: Product Announcement

On May 17, 2023, the Swiss Higher Technical School of Zurich announced the development of a smart cane for the blind and visually impaired. A product called NextGuide is expected to make it much easier for such people to orient themselves on the ground - primarily in unfamiliar environments.

The novelty is made of carbon fiber and has a foldable design. An electronic module is located in front of the handle: it contains a camera with a field of view angle of 160 degrees, a microprocessor, a tactile feedback unit and other components. In addition, there is also a special physical indicator of the direction of movement, deviating to the right or left. Power is provided by the built-in battery.

NextGuide Smart Walking Stick for the Blind

When traveling with a cane, the integrated camera scans the space ahead, and the processor analyzes images at a speed of approximately 100 frames per second. Special machine learning algorithms allow you to identify various obstacles on the way in advance, as well as recognize stairs, pedestrian crossings, doors and other objects.

By holding the thumb on the physical pointer, the user can feel its deviations in one side or another: thereby, the cane gives recommendations on which trajectory it is better to bypass the obstacle. At the same time, vibrations of different types inform about approaching the steps or roadway. You can also configure audible alerts if necessary.

Thus, when using NextGuide, it is not necessary to constantly contact the tip of the cane with objects while walking: the device issues warnings even before a person touches the obstacle. This improves safety and improves quality of life. The estimated cost of the product is not reported.^[1]

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