Four bright and ambitious Biomedical Engineering students at Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, New Jersey, recently completed a capstone Senior Design Project focusing on the issue of overhead detection for visually impaired individuals. At the heart of their efforts was a desire and a commitment to make a difference in others’ lives and to give something back. 

Led by Adjunct Professor and veteran Ryan Ona, the Sight Assist Technologies team consisting of Abigail Fernandez, Ainsley Woo, Aurora Madera, and Sabrina Bowes designed and created a prototype of modified glasses with photochromic lenses, ultrasonic sensors, and linear resonant actuator (LRA) motors.

BVA applauds the hard work, research, and innovation committed to this project. The team went a step further, discovering the Blinded Veterans Association and offering a generous monetary donation to support our blind and low vision veterans.

Along the road to designing and creating their product prototypes, the team was immersed in many academic experiences related to innovation and entrepreneurism, including lean product design, elevator pitch competitions, and business planning.

The Sight Assist Technologies team was uniquely focused on the issue of overhead object detection for the visually impaired. The function distinguished it from other solutions in the market. The ultrasonic sensors detect an obstacle while the LRA motors provide haptic feedback to users, helping them avoid overhead objects. The Sight Assist Glasses offer all-day use with a rechargeable battery and comfortable design, offering a simple and affordable solution for enhanced navigation.

The inspiring story behind this unlikely innovation and its connection to BVA comes with additional details. Look for them in future issues of BVA Happenings and The Bulletin.