Researchers at the University of Georgia have developed an innovative backpack system designed to assist vision-impaired users in navigating their surroundings. This cutting-edge backpack incorporates a Luxonis OAK-D spatial camera, equipped with an on-chip edge AI processor and Intel's Movidius image processing technology.
The 4K camera, which captures both depth information and color images, is discreetly housed in a vest or fanny pack. The system utilizes Intel's OpenVINO toolkit for efficient inferencing and operates for up to eight hours, thanks to a compact battery stored in the fanny pack. Additionally, the backpack is equipped with a lightweight computing device featuring a GPS unit.
This advanced system can detect obstacles, including overhead ones, and provides audio prompts to guide the wearer. It is capable of reading traffic signs and recognizing changes in elevation, alerting users to stop signs at crosswalks or curbs directly in their path. A Bluetooth earpiece enables voice control, allowing users to request descriptions of their surroundings or save GPS locations with specific names.
The researchers intend to open-source the project, highlighting its unobtrusive design that minimizes attention when used in public settings. However, a potential drawback is the requirement to carry a backpack at all times. Looking ahead, the researchers aspire to further integrate this technology, envisioning a future where similar capabilities could be incorporated into smart glasses.