Replicating the guide dog's pull through 3D spatial detection & haptics.
EchoSight is an open-source wearable system that empowers the visually impaired to navigate autonomously. By combining active-stereo depth vision, on-chip 3D spatial object detection, visual SLAM mapping, and a 5-point forehead tactile array, the system translates physical obstacles into intuitive directional guidance.
Silent Tactile Guidance with Reflex-First Edge AI
Leaves the user's ears 100% unobstructed so critical ambient acoustic cues (traffic, footsteps, echoes) remain intact.
High-bandwidth 3D depth and YOLO run entirely on-chip in the VPU, delivering instant tactile avoidance before hitting host compute.
Active infrared dot projector paints artificial texture onto smooth floors and pitch-black rooms where standard stereo cameras fail.
Connected pipeline diagram: sensor bus, VPU acceleration, spatial threat evaluation, and multi-modal feedback loops.
Single-option verified components: OAK-D Pro W, Pi 5, BOBOVR halo strap, Anker Prime 200W battery, and power wiring.
Sensory substitution philosophy: why tactile pull replaces a guide dog, latency hierarchies, and halo counterweighting.