Horizon scan, innovation. BlindMaps braille interface for smartphones
Andrew Spitz, Markus Schmeiduch and Ruben van der Vleuten took part in a 36 hour project at the Copenhagen Institute of Interaction Design where they created the concept for BlindMaps. They developed the idea for a handheld device that uses moving pins to indicate to users the route that should be taken. It can either be attached to an iPhone or used remotely via Bluetooth. Through utilising crowdsourcing, the underlying maps are constantly updated concerning route changes, obstacles etc. via instant user feedback.
Currently, this research project is being further developed, and visually impaired help trial the prototypes in Linz, Berlin and Amsterdam through the CreativeRegion / Cross-Innovation.eu programme. The project intends to enable visually impaired a more independent navigation as well as exploration of unfamiliar environments.
Company: Copenhagen Institute of Interaction Design (Andrew Spitz, Ruben van der Vleuten, and Markus Schmeiduch)
Components: Braille interface for smartphones, GPS, Bluetooth