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The Laser Cane
The Laser Cane is a device that emits three invisible
beams, each having a distinctive tone that sound when activated. The
upper and straight head beams emit a high and middle pitched sound when
they are reflected back to the device when it strikes an object in its
path. The downward beam produces a low pitched tone when it cannot detect
an object to bounce it back to the device. For example, when a user
approaches a curb, the drop-off prevents the beam from being returned
to the unit, at which time the tone will sound, alerting the user.
In addition to the audible sound warnings the Laser Cane has a vibrating
unit called the tactile stimulator that signals the index finger when
there is an obstruction straight ahead. The user is given the option
of using both the audible signals and the tactile warnings at the same
time or may turn off the sound and rely solely on the tactile.
Advantages
- The Laser Cane is the only primary electronic aide necessary for independent
travel.
- The Laser Cane relies solely on "go, no go" information
that allows the user to move with maximum efficiency.
- The Laser Cane is the only electronic travel aide that provides downward
information, extremely effective when approaching curbs, stairs, manholes,
etc.
- The Laser Cane receives advanced knowledge of a clear path for up
to 12 feet in front of the user.
- The Laser Cane can locate objects without fear of collision and avoids
embarrassing cane contact with other pedestrians.
- The Laser Cane decreases travel anxiety and increases the user's confidence,
independence and speed.
- The Laser Cane offers the same benefits of the long cane and uses
a three level signal system that notifies the user of oncoming obstacles.
- No external battery packs are needed.
- No entrance restrictions to the Laser Cane. Restaurants, hospitals,
churches, taxis and buses may be entered without challenge.
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GPS Technology
GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM (GPS)
The GPS is a navigational device that displays geographic information.
A Braille Note is a portable and compact computer unit. Information is
input using a keyboard and recalled with a Braille display or voice response.
A blind person may input geographic data into the Braille Note that is
transmitted into the GPS. The GPS processes the data and sends responses
back to the Braille Note. The blind person then retrieves the information.
FEATURES:
- Create routes: The user can create routes such as from home to work
and from school to the library.
- Play routes: The user can open a route file, follow it to the desired
destination and then toggle it to reverse the route to take the user
back to the starting point of the route.
- Points of Interest: This device contains over 70,000 manufacture stored
points of interest. From any location nationwide, the device will announce
points of interest in the surrounding area including personal points
of interest that the user may have added. Points of interest may include
restaurants, banks, ATM machines and a whole lot more.
- Mapping Card: Generally the GPS will give a longitude and latitude
description from a fixed satellite position. The map card replaces this.
The map card will display the actual street name the user is located
on rather than the latitude and longitude description.
The Braille Note/GPS is not a substitute for a guide dog or cane. This
device further enhances the user's confidence in independent travel by
providing the user with a more precise description of the area the user
is at.
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The Polaron
The Polaron, a compact aide for the visually impaired, is
specially designed to allow the user to choose between its handheld and
chest-mounted positions. It utilizes ultrasonic technology to detect objects
within four, eight, or sixteen feet. The Polaron can be used as a secondary
aide to a standard long cane or with a guide dog. It helps the user navigate
safely and efficiently by avoiding obstacles, using landmarks, and shorelining.
In areas of familiarity such as home or the workplace, the Polaron may
be especially useful in locating tools, instruments, and for general navigation
without a long cane.
The unique feature about the Polaron is that it may be worn at chest height
by converting the wrist strap into a neck strap. This provides the user
with forward and head height protection while freeing his/her hands for
other tasks.
When an obstacle is within range, the Polaron either vibrates or emits
a sound. The user may select the notification mode with a switch located
on the control side of the device. The switch also controls the volume
level. Other controls include the range switch and the power switch. When
the Polaron is in the chest-mounted position, a miniaturized vibrator
located behind the neck in the chest strap indicates if there is an obstacle.
The lightweight construction of the Polaron is specifically designed for
use by the partially sighted, blind, deaf-blind, and visually impaired
wheelchair user. The lightweight construction and simple operation of
the Polaron make it an appropriate orientation and mobility aide tool
for all age groups, as well as for people of varying mental capacities.
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