Coding the environment in tactile maps for real-time guidance of the visually impaired

This paper explores an application of computer vision and touch stimulating interfaces for developing a novel electronic travel aid (ETA): the Intelligent Glasses (IG). The IG is a new sensory substitution/supplementation supportive system that provides tactile maps of visual spaces and possible paths for navigating these spaces so that the visually impaired can easily perform independent, safe and efficient mobility tasks. A technical overview of the system is presented as well as preliminary results that strongly suggest that environmental information presented to the sense of touch is feasible for realtime guidance of the visually impaired.