Wii Cane
1. INTRODUCTION
The WiiMote’s ability to describe a body within 3D space means that it can be used like a cane, and therefore could provide an interface to 3D environments for the visually impaired.
By acting as a cane within 3D space the virtual counterpart uses distance measurements obtained by ray casting to control feedback in the form of vibration and auditory signals.
To explore this concept an initial test environment has been created and accompanying scripts defined. In addition a visually impaired user base has been set up in line with the current user-sensitive design methodology, to provide both design input and evaluation.
Testing has highlighted the need for initial orientation and calibration to be facilitated, however performance results are good. The guide dog analogy has also been explored. This has greater potential for successful navigation, and it is planned to develop the “guide dog” to give verbal feedback and advice.
Initial results suggest the aim to create accessible Serious Games for the blind is feasible.
2. CURRENT CONFIGURATION
Within the current configuration, left and right turning is achieved by rolling the Nunchuk to the left and to the right, producing a 10 degree turn. Left and right step sounds provide turning feedback, which proved easy to interpret.
Motion forwards and backwards is initiated by tilting the Nunchuk up or down. The Wiimote is used for scanning the space. Beeps are used for indicating different types of objects and their distance. Different tones of beep are used to indicate furniture, walls, doors, floors and out of scanning plane (accompanied by a constant rumble). The rate of the beeps increases as any object are approached. There is a constant rumble on collision.
Subjects were told when they had passed from one space to another (for the last subject this was implemented as a whooshing sound on transition). As with the previous configurations, pressing a button produced spoken distance and object name.
For a more in depth description and further details please visit: Creating an Intelligent Virtual Cane Using the Nintendo Wii Controller
