Blind Landing Aids

Reading aids for the blind.

Before escorting you into the microcosmic world of reading aids, let me supply some background . In 1913, a British physicist, Dr . E.E. Fournier d'Albe described a reading aid for blind people and later built a crude model . A young woman, Mary Jameson, demonstrated it . Then a British engineering firm, Barr and Stroud, redesigned it and built six copies. Several blind persons have used them d...

Mobility aids for the blind.

1. Next to restoring vision, or a modicum of vision, an ideal mobility device is desired. It should be able to give the user data on his location, orientation, routes, compass courses, obstacles, etc. 2. Increase the awareness among consumers and professionals alike of the availability of new devices such as the Laser Typhlocane, Binaural Sensory Aid, and Lindsay Russell Pathsounder. 3. Improve...

Electronic Locomotion Aids for the Blind: Towards More Assistive Systems

This chapter first presents a review of existing locomotion assistance devices for the blind. These devices are merely proximeters, that measure the distance to the closest obstacles, and convey this information to their users. We introduce the measurement methods (infrared sensors, ultrasonic sensors, laser telemeters) and the user interfaces (sounds and tactile vibrations). Then, we analyse t...

Emergency Landing Automation Aids: An Evaluation Inspired by US Airways Flight 1549

The Hudson River emergency landing of US Airways Flight 1549 inspired aviation enthusiasts and citizens alike. The pilot's skill and composure were exceptional, clearly contributing to one of the most successful aircraft water ditchings possible. As we prepare for transition to a next-generation air transportation system, we are developing new technologies both to increase system capacity and e...

AIDS