Mygo Cane

By: M. K. Hisham - Oct 25, 2007
References: blog.wired
A German student has invented an innovative technology that could prove revolutionary for the blind. The MyGo Cane has the potential to replace seeing eye dogs as guides for the visually impaired.

Sebastian Ritzler came up with the white cane which acts as an interactive guiding system while studying at Kiel's Muthesius Academy of Art and Design.

"The Mygo cane itself is supposed to be made out of some sort of super tough waterproof material and will be height adjustable so that it suits both males and females," Wired blog reported. "What makes the Mygo cane stand out from ordinary 'dumb' canes is the inclusion of a system with a smart sensor and camera combo which is capable of measuring the ground area accurately in real time while pushing auditory feedback to a headset.

"The integration of a mini wheel at the tip of the cane also helps greatly as it has a hub motor which provides intuitive feedback via the grip, doubling up as a steering guide which has a battery life of approximately 6 hours."

This invention could serve particularly useful for blind people afflicted by allergies to dog dander.

For over a dozen more innovations for the blind, check out the following trend: