Vision Assist

Presenter: Kent Yang

Faculty Sponsor: Kara Roche

School: Mount Wachusett Community College

Research Area: Computer Science

Session: Poster Session 2, 11:30 AM - 12:15 PM, 163, C24

ABSTRACT

In 2025, technology is everywhere. Smartphones rival computers, AI is integrated into daily life, and countries are racing to develop faster processors. But while society embraces virtual and augmented realities, what about technology for the disabled? Specifically, how can we use these innovations to assist the blind? This research project aims to tackle this problem. Through my research on assistive technology and background in IT, I’ve developed a concept to help the visually impaired regain independence. According to the American Foundation for the Blind, over 50 million American adults experienced vision loss in 2022, with 340,000 being completely blind. Globally, 43 million people live with blindness, while 295 million have moderate to severe visual impairment. Current devices like Envision Glasses and OrCam MyEye 2 Pro use AI for text-to-speech and object recognition, but they have limitations—short battery life, high costs, and reliance on voice commands. That’s where Vision Assist comes in. This concept proposes smart glasses designed for blind users fluent in Braille. Rather than relying on voice feedback, these glasses provide real-time information through Braille-based tactile feedback, allowing users to navigate independently. For those who cannot read Braille, the glasses also feature a voice option for added flexibility. By combining wearable technology with room mapping, haptics, and voice feedback, Vision Assist offers a practical solution that empowers the visually impaired. With current advancements in AI, wearable devices, and cloud technology, I have no doubt this concept can become a reality, offering a future where blindness doesn’t mean losing independence.

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