Indian Express: Washington: An Indian-origin scientist at the University of Texas at Dallas and his students have developed shoes that could soon replace the time-tested white canes and help the blind find their way. The shoe is covered in sensors that will vibrate once an obstacle is approached. The closer the obstacle, the faster will be the vibration. “This is an aid that gives them signals – in advance – where the obstacle is. And then they will navigate,” Dr. Dinesh Bhatia told ABC News Dallas affiliate WFAA.
Another objective of the shoes was to free up both hands for whoever wears them. Though the prototype for the shoe – built by using off-the-shelf components – is a far cry from sleek, Bhatia assures that it can be improved upon. Laura Shagman, one of the students on the design team, tested the shoe while blindfolded, and within feet of an object she was able to tell it was there. Read Full: Soon, vibrating shoes to help blind people 'see' their way - Indian Express
