Wearable device helps visually impaired read
Created by a team from the MIT Media Lab, The FingerReader is a wearable device for the visually impaired that scans pieces of text and provides audio feedback in real-time.
The 3D-printed device is worn as a ring on the index finger and uses a built-in camera and haptic actuators to read aloud as the user traces lines of printed words.
The algorithm scans multiple words at once and knows to detect and give feedback when the user veers away from the baseline of the text. It also helps them maintain a straight scanning motion within the line.
As well as assisting the visually impaired, the researchers believe the FingerReader could be used to help teach young children how to read, and act as a language translator.
They are now working to take the device from prototype to production, and are looking at ways to make it faster and smaller.
