AWARD YEAR
2019
CATEGORY
Body
GOALS
Good Health & Well-being
KEYWORDS
Visually Impaired, Human Centred Design, ultrasonic cane
COUNTRY
United States of America
DESIGNED BY
Allie Haydon
WEBSITE
http://www.globalgradshow.com/projects/makes-sense/
Makes Sense
an ultrasonic cane for the blind and visually impaired
Makes Sense is an ultrasonic white cane that allows blind and visually impaired users to sense when objects are in or near their path. The handle begins to vibrate when objects are within six feet of the ultrasonic sensors on the cane; as the objects get nearer, the cane vibrates more quickly. This allows the user to understand how much room she has and adjust her route accordingly. The battery-powered, rechargeable handle is ergonomic and purposeful; the user’s hand stays in a neutral position while using the cane, and they can direct the sensors by turning the handle of the cane. This gives them the ability to navigate a space autonomously, without fear of injury.