Ultrasound Sensing Cane!
Now Available!
What this is about
Here's the thing, most walking canes, even the ones that attempt to use ultrasound (Which I will get to later) only give an auditory warning when they're nearing something. That's all fine and dandy, but what are you to do in a very crowded area when you may not be able to hear the cane? Nothng. So to change the status quo we have revoultionized the market with not just a walking cane you can hear, but one you can feel, with one that vibrates.
How it works
With the newest ultrasound technology available to the market. We used it along with our classic walking cane in order to bring on a new wave of mobility and comfort for the visually impaired. The sensor will be consistently sending off signals parallel to the ground which will make the cane vibrate to let the user know they are getting close to walking into an obstacle.
Engineering Design Process
Step 1: We need to design and produce a new product for the disabled.
Step 2: It mustn't be too expensive to produce or for the consumer to buy.
Step 3: We came up with 3 ideas, including our cane. A watch that lights up when it detects noise, a wheelchair with rockets to go faster, and then obviously the cane.
Step 4: • How much would each product possibly help the user? 1, 7/10; 2, 3/10; 3, 8/10
• Cost of production (the higher the number, the cheaper): 1, 3/10; 2, 0/10; 3, 7/10
• Creativity (how often this has been done before): 1, 6/10; 2, 10/10; 3, 4/10
Final solution: the vibrating walking cane.
Description of Product
It looks as if it is your average straight walking cane. It is approximately 5 feet long, and it has a handle at the top, with a strap attached. At the bottom, there is a rubber stopper to protect the sensor from being damaged from being hit on multiple surfaces.
How math is involved
Math is involved on the basis sensitivity and range. It's necessary for the sensitivity to be optimized because when the sensor sends out a signal, you don't want it vibrating randomly because you're 20 feet from a building or near a blade of grass. So internal calculations based off how long it takes for the sound to come back would help. This would set a range as well which is necessary for optimal use
Polypropylene
Durable plastic like material that is very strong and durable.
Screwdriver
Used to secure a pane for all of the electrical components inside the cane.
Soldering Iron
Used to keep all of the electrical components in place inside the cane.