Concept and Prototype of a Training System to Improve Agility in Response to Auditory Cues for Individuals with Visual Impairments

Measuring and training agility in individuals with visual impairments (IVIs) is essential but challenging. This study proposes a simple, versatile, and practical training system concept inspired by side-to-side jump tests, aimed at enhancing agility in IVIs by focusing on their responses to auditory cues. Our research evaluated the responsiveness and accuracy of key components necessary to implement this concept: a real-time human position detection function employing machine learning-based image recognition and a multi-speaker control function utilizing distributed robotic control middleware. Based on these findings, we developed an initial system prototype that maintains stable operating conditions. We confirmed that the system operates as designed and identified practical challenges for its application.