01/11/05 - TUGS - I feel What You See

Brunel University developed the Brunel Global Positioning System (GPS) Navigation System for Blind and Visually Impaired Pedestrians.  This system offered continual assistance to the pedestrian via an audio link.  The user equipment included two small webcams and a GPS location device.  This equipment streamed information back to the operator, and allowed then to see where the user is.  The operator was located in a remote (from the user) control centre and connected to the user through the telecommunication and satellite networks.   The equipment is small and easily carried, but the audio feedback proved, in trials, to be extremely hard to use.  Problems with the use of 'natural' language were encountered and users had difficulties hearing the messages, particularly in noisy environments.

"Tugs" (Tactile User Guidance System) is an innovative interface that transmits directional navigational and hazard warning messages using five miniature vibrating actuators, which are located on the user's body.  The audio system is still in use, but is restricted to essential conversational interaction.  Examples of how the two complimentary systems are used show that the audio system may be for the user to enquire about the destination of an approaching bus, whilst Tugs transmits basic directional messages. 

Tugs is worn over a lightweight undergarment and is not affected by any outerwear thus making it virtually invisible to most observers.  This is important for many users, as they do not want to wear "outlandish" equipment that stigmatises them as disabled.  Tugs has now been through two extensive trials - with over 50 volunteers, both sighted and visually impaired, spanning a period of over a year.  All the volunteers found Tugs easy to use and had no problems following the instructions conveyed by the system.  There was not training period, the system was introduced to the volunteers, the messages explained (left vibrator actuated, you turn left) and they system put on.  In all cases, it was immediately useable and no one found it uncomfortable or unpleasant to wear.

For more information visit:  www.dea.brunel.ac.uk/tugs