Israeli scientists develop 'virtual cane' to make life easier for the blind

You must have spotted a blind person walking with a cane. Gone are the days when the blind were able to ascertain only a meter's distance using their cane. You are soon going to witness sight challenged folks with a cool looking gadget. Dr. Amir Amedi, from the Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada (IMRIC), in collaboration with Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences (ELSC), The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, has developed a virtual cane for the blind.

Virtual cane for blind

This cane will help the blind to ascertain the distance and height of objects around them and that too in all directions. As compared to a cane which only ascertains the distance up to a meter, this device can function from a range of less than a meter to up to ten meters. What's more, it can also distinguish between a smiling and a sad face.

Wondering how it works?

The device charges a beam toward the surrounding objects and gives the information to the user in the form of a vibration, not very different from a cell phone vibration. This device, which has been patented by Yissum Research Development Company Ltd (the technology transfer company of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem), has a number of sensors that estimate the distance between the user and the object it is pointed toward. The user of this device will be able to construct an image of his surroundings and navigate accordingly. So, no more bumping into people and objects for them!

Okay, sounds good but how practical is it? It is small, accurate, easy to carry, chargeable (battery lasts up to 12 hrs), and super easy to work with. Even the technologically challenged people can learn how to use this in minutes.

Could it be any better? Dr. Amedi said this device will also help in research in terms of recording the changes in the brain when it receives input and brain reorganization of the blind. Undoubtedly, this is going to be a giant leap for the blind toward a better vision. So don't be too surprised if you spot the sight challenged carrying a cool gadget instead of the proverbial white cane. And no, they are not trying to shoot you. They are just pointing the device at you to ascertain the distance. And give them a smile when you pass by. The sensors will tell them you are smiling. Yissum is now seeking strategic partners for further development.

Via: YNetNews