A white cane is a directional and mobility tool used by visually impaired people to navigate roads unaided. These elements act as obstacle detectors and are essential to the daily lives of people in this region, but their days may be numbered as they will be replaced by robots, coinciding with the rise of the robotics sector. Autonomous robot that safely guides visually impaired people.
Developed by American Glidance, Glide is a cane-shaped android.it has wheels, integrates artificial intelligence, is equipped with everything from cameras to sensors, is designed to verbally and physically guide people, and weighs just over 3 kilograms, Can detect obstacles It can take visually impaired people to their destinations.
but, How does it work? The Glide features two 7.5-inch rubber wheels, a front bumper, an adjustable telescoping axle in the middle, and an ergonomic handle on top. Here it is, A complete set of sensors and cameras allows you to instantly analyze your environment To guide users safely. Additionally, it includes a stereoscopic depth camera with a range of 15 meters, a microphone, speakers, control buttons on the steering wheel, and a haptic feedback unit. Issue alerts, automatically brake, and program routes.
It is also important to mention the aforementioned robot. Can also be used in free modeso that the user can walk independently, or in direct navigation modeprovide verbal prompts.
Finally, speaking of its features, Glide is portable; It can run autonomously for more than 6 hours. It charges via the USB-C port and can be used to traverse terrain, whether it’s dirt or smooth.
availability
This device appears on the current scene. Alternative to white caneHowever, this does not mean that they will be replaced in the future.
For now, Glide is still being tested in Seattle (USA) But if everything goes according to plan, it could be reached Available next spring for $1,499 (approximately just over 1,300 euros at Spanish exchange rates).