Pattern Detection Using Vibration Feedback for Visually Impaired

This study explores the efficacy of alternative image perception modalities for individuals with visual impairments, focusing on the utilization of haptic feedback. A novel approach is introduced employing a wearable hand bracelet that generates vibrations with different patterns so that a user can recognize objects through the vibrations. The presented work uses image segmentation to assign different regular patterns of black-and-white bars to objects in an image. The aim of the experimentation in this work is to determine the minimum bar width in a segmented image, and the minimum object dimensions that a user can correctly recognize in an image through vibrations on the wrist bracelet. Results showed that an object with dimensions as small as 34x34mm of height and width could be recognized with a recognition rate of 81% and a bar width of 0.3mm could be recognized with a recognition rate of 68%. This innovative sensory substitution technique holds significant potential for enhancing the interpretive capabilities and autonomy of visually impaired users.