The ARA and BIPED devices are both assistive technologies designed for blind and visually impaired individuals to enhance their mobility and independence. However, they have distinct features and functionalities. The ARA device, developed by Strap Tech, is a wearable chest harness that uses an array of ultrasonic and lidar sensors to scan the environment in real-time, identifying potential obstacles at various height levels (top, mid, and low). The device then provides feedback to the user through haptic vibration patterns, allowing them to navigate their surroundings safely and confidently. The ARA device can be used in conjunction with traditional mobility aids like white canes or guide dogs and is designed to adapt to the user’s unique rhythm and lifestyle. On the other hand, the BIPED device is a smart harness worn on the shoulders that uses autonomous driving technology to detect obstacles and provide GPS instructions to the user through AI. The device comes in two versions: BIPED Pro and BIPED Pro Plus. It uses 3D cameras to detect and track the movement of surrounding objects in a 170-degree field of view and predicts the trajectory of potential obstacles, filtering out irrelevant information to avoid overwhelming the user. The device provides audio feedback through spatial sounds, warning the user of potential obstacles and providing GPS instructions. In terms of comparison, both devices use advanced sensor technology to detect obstacles and provide feedback to the user. However, the ARA device uses haptic vibration patterns, while the BIPED device uses audio feedback. Additionally, the ARA device is a chest harness, while the BIPED device is worn on the shoulders. The ARA device can be used with traditional mobility aids, while the BIPED device is designed to be an all-in-one mobility aid. In conclusion, both the ARA and BIPED devices offer unique features and functionalities to enhance the mobility and independence of blind and visually impaired individuals. The choice between the two devices would depend on the user’s specific needs and preferences.
References: 1 Strap Tech - Assistive Tech for the Blind and Visually Impaired, www.strap.tech 2 biped Smart copilot for blind and visually impaired people,
