New technology guides the blind

Despite the considerable technological advancements, the white cane is still the primary mobility aid for the visually impaired.

Advanced electronic travel aids have never been widely accepted – often seen as unreliable and not fitted to the user’s individual needs.

But students at the Lodz Technical University have intoduced a more effective solution.

The user wears a device that is equipped with a small digital camera, GPS receiver, cell phone and headset.

An operator is then able to guide the blind person by talking to them. This system is especially useful when someone gets lost.

In addition, the guide can see a person’s location on a map and help with other daily tasks like shopping.

Although designed for the blind, this new system can also be useful guiding the elderly, tourists and emergency workers.

Copyright © 2012 euronews