2024-01-06 23:11:49
A haptic belt that allows visually impaired and blind people to perceive their environment is the solution developed by Artha France and Sculpteo. Connected to a camera, it reproduces images via mechanical stimuli in the lower back
“Recover your sight” thanks to a haptic belt, this is the challenge taken up by Philippe, visually impaired (in photo below). He came from Corsica to test this technological gem designed by Sculpteoleader in 3D printing, and the startup Artha France. The principle ? The user has a camera “clip-on” on glasses which films its environment in real time (presentation video opposite). The images are then transcribed tactilely, via artificial intelligence, using small impulses generated by the lumbar belt. Objective: to encourage travel and, in fine, the autonomy of the 1.7 million French people with a visual impairment.
Also effective with video games
After a few minutes of adaptation, Philippe was able to move with complete peace of mind in the street, identify walls, poles, steps, vehicles and other obstacles, but also shake hands (video available on the account X d’Artha France). “It’s incredible to be able to do this with your eyes closed,” he enthuses. Verdict? “It was well worth six hours on the train, I would have even done double or triple that! » As the device only needs a video signal to function, Philippe was also able to test it on Trackmaniaa series of racing video games. “I no longer face a wall, it’s as if I’m clairvoyant! “, exclaims the young man.
A high-tech jewel worth 3,000 euros
Since this experiment, a new version, which represents the culmination of five years of research and development, is available. “By revisiting hinges, moving from a multi-part design to a single part printed in one go, Sculpteo allowed to Artha France to improve comfort for users, durability, design but also to considerably reduce production time,” explain the designers.
To afford this technological revolution, you will have to pay around 3,000 euros (price envisaged) and wait a few more months… The haptic belt is not yet marketed. One hundred devices can, however, be pre-ordered on the website.Artha France.
© X Artha France
“All rights of reproduction and representation reserved.© Handicap.fr. This article was written by Cassandre Rogeret, journalist Handicap.fr”
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