Wataru Chino, a Honda EV engineer has developed a navigation system called Ashirase that will enable low-sighted people to use their feet to navigate rather than relying on smartphones or any other aids. The navigation system has attracted funding from Honda’s Ignition startup incubator program.
The device features the dedicated Ashirase navigation app on the user’s phone and a silicon shoe insert that packs a motion sensor-electronic compass. Once the user feeds their destination to the app, the shoe inserts will vibrate in various ways. It has different tempos for different commands.
Helping the visually impaired
The purpose behind the new device is to enable users to remain more aware of their surroundings while they are walking, using their feet to navigate rather than stopping at places to consult their phones or nearby people.
As of now, the insert prototypes can only be used in low-top sneakers and dress shoes but Chino already aims to bring the tech for a wide range of footwear. “We are thinking about [new footwear styles], and the idea is twofold at this moment,” Chino told Engadget. “One is to try to change, modifying the [electronic] device so that the shape can be fitted to other types of shoes.”
Commercial launch slated for 2022
“Otherwise, what we can do is to change the yellow parts of this device so that it fits other types of shoes,” he added. The system claims to offer a week-long battery life when the navigation is done for three hours a day. During the initial stages, the device will come in small, medium, and large sizes in Japan but later the company will aim to offer custom fits as well.
The navigation system is based on Google Maps API, which means the system might not work indoor areas, though outdoors and other public areas shouldn’t be a problem. The company aims to launch a beta version of the navigation system in Japan in October or November this year. The commercialized product might be ready by October next year at a price of around 2,000-3,000 yen per month.
