Sensory Substitution Device for the Visually Impaired Using 122 GHz Radar and Tactile Feedback

This paper presents a 122 GHz Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) radar-based handheld device for sensory substitution for the visually impaired. Distance information from a miniaturized mmWave radar sensor is converted to tactile information by mapping it to an array of vibration actuators. The complete system is integrated into a portable device which is carried in the hand, with the actuators touching the fingertips. A user can explore the environment by combining the distance information provided through the tactile stimulus with the sense of direction gained by pointing the device. This allows to detect obstacles and make evasive manoeuvres to avoid collisions. Experimental results demonstrate that the device is well suited for sensory substitution applications.