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Visually impaired man walks with cane - Source: ONE News -
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A Kiwi-designed device to help the blind navigate public spaces has been unveiled on international White Cane Day.
The electronic device aims to guide the visually impaired through difficult spots and is being trialled in Christchurch.
Gloria Weeks is blind and finding her way around public spaces isn't easy as she negotiates hazards such as pot plants and seats.
There are all kinds of things that you can walk into and trip over, says Weeks.
"It puts people off of having to cope with that."
Sixty orientation sound posts have been set up in the central Christchurch trial and the system works by using infrared sensors.
These are mounted around public spaces like Cathedral Square and send information back to the hand-held remotes.
"It's like having an invisible person walking next to you just telling you which way to go," says Weeks.
The Foundation of the Blind can also see the potential.
"I think it's got the possibility to go world wide," says spokesman Kevin Prince.
Inventor Darryl Sherwood says he wants to get the hand controllers and base stations to blind people around the world and help them on a daily basis.
Visually impaired himself, Sherwood designed the system so it can be used at a personal level.
"Individual blind people are going to find use for them," says Sherwood.
Hand sets and sensors cost $200 each and the city council is funding the Christchurch trial.
