Computer Vision System for the Blind Veteran
Overview
- Phase
- Phase 1
- Intervention
- Not specified
- Conditions
- Blindness
- Sponsor
- VA Office of Research and Development
- Enrollment
- 16
- Locations
- 2
- Primary Endpoint
- Frequency of Device Failures Per Attempt to Complete a Navigation Course
- Status
- Completed
- Last Updated
- 10 years ago
Overview
Brief Summary
This is a feasibility study involving a small number of blind subject to evaluate the effectiveness of using a software and associated hardware components to assist the blind in identifying and locating objects of interests and to assist in way finding tasks. After the system has been successfully tested by the blindfolded engineers, it will be evaluated in a small number of blind subjects.
Detailed Description
This is primarily an engineering project to develop computer vision algorithms for an integrated system comprising of a laptop computer, webcam, gps, digital compass, microphone, and stereo earphones. The system will be voice controlled. The algorithm will be trained to identify and located objects and navigationally landmarks in real-time, previously selected by sighted developers. After the system has passed objective engineering milestones, blind subjects will be tested to determine whether the novel system will improve the ability of the blind to travel over a test course in a hospital setting.
Investigators
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria
- •age 18 and over
- •legally blind
Exclusion Criteria
- •decreased hearing
- •unable to understand or follow instructions
- •inability to walk and stand for 10 minutes
Outcomes
Primary Outcomes
Frequency of Device Failures Per Attempt to Complete a Navigation Course
Time Frame: The subject is given as much time as needed to complete the task
device failures were defined as any failure to provide correct location and direction information at thre appropriate time, resulting in a mistake that needed the initial prototype's ability to meet their travel needs at a good to excellent range.
Secondary Outcomes
- Ability to Meet the Subjective Travel Needs of the Blind Subject(no time limit)