New device to aid visually-impaired

KUALA LUMPUR: A device resembling a pair of spectacles that has built-in sensors has been created to aid visually-impaired people gauge the distance of objects.
The device, called "My Second Eye", was conceptualised three years ago by a group of researchers from Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka (UteM) and it is the first to be used by ten visually-impaired individuals chosen from both the National Council for the Blind and the Society of the Blind.
UteM vice-chancellor Prof Dr Shahrin Sahibuddin said apart from being a sensory gadget, the device is capable of a 360-degree scan and detect any obstructions above the upper body level.
"It will warn the user of any obstacles by producing a beeping sound, informing them of the object or obstacles in order to guide them. (It is powered by) a battery which is rechargeable with a USB cable," he said, adding that the participants will undergo a trial run in the next few months and their feedback used to enhance the device.
The device is expected to cost apprximately RM500 each.
Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin launched an event today to present the devices to the selected recipients which included Malacca Society of the Blind chairman Hashim Ishak. Also present was Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Datuk Dr Abu Bakar Mohamad Diah.