
Australian scientists have invented a cutting-edge technology known as “acoustic touch,” which allows individuals to “see” with sound. The technology has the potential to significantly improve the lives of those who are blind or have impaired eyesight.
According to the World Health Organization, around 39 million people worldwide are blind, and an additional 246 million people have limited vision, limiting their ability to engage in daily living activities.
Researchers from the University of Technology Sydney and the University of Sydney collaborated with Sydney start-up ARIA Research to create the next generation of smart glasses, which transform visual information into discrete sound symbols.
The researchers tested the gadget on 14 people: seven people with blindness or low vision and seven blindfolded sighted people who acted as a control group.
“Smart glasses typically use computer vision and other sensory information to translate the wearer’s surroundings into computer-synthesized speech,” said Distinguished Professor Chin-Teng Lin of the University of Technology Sydney, a global pioneer in brain-computer interface research.
“However, acoustic touch technology sonifies objects, creating unique sound representations as they enter the device’s field of view.” “For example, rustling leaves could represent a plant, or a buzzing sound could represent a mobile phone,” he explained.
“The auditory feedback empowers users to identify and reach for objects with remarkable accuracy,” Dr. Zhu added. “Our findings indicate that acoustic touch has the potential to offer a wearable and effective method of sensory augmentation for the visually impaired community.”
The research emphasizes the significance of creating assistive technologies in order to overcome difficulties such as locating certain household objects and personal possessions.
By solving these daily obstacles, acoustic touch technology expands opportunities for people who are blind or have impaired vision, increasing their freedom and quality of life.
Acoustic touch technology may become a vital aspect of assistive technologies as technology advances, allowing users to access their surroundings more efficiently and effectively than ever before.
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