Class / Patent application number | Description | Number of patent applications / Date published |
348062000 | Aid for the blind | 84 |
20080198222 | System and method for tele-presence - A computer based process for providing a visually impaired subject with multi-modal (local, remote, human-aided, computer-aided), multi-sensory (hearing, touch), information about the subject's physical environment is disclosed, involving identifying at least one guide; identifying at least one subject; establishing a communication connection between the guide and the subject; capturing information about the at least one subject's physical environment; presenting the information about the at least one subject's physical environment to the at least one guide; capturing the guide's response to the at least one subject's physical environment; and communicating the guide's response to the at least one subject. The system may involve a guide computer, a user mounted information collection system for receiving visual signals, audio input signals, and a user mounted information dispensing system for dispensing a haptic signal and an audio output signal. A bi-directional communication system operably linked between the computer, the information collection system, and the information dispensing system enables the computer to receive visual and audio signals from the user and communicates audio output signals from the guide to the user. | 08-21-2008 |
20100073469 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR AMBLYOPIA THERAPY USING MODIFIED DIGITAL CONTENT - Systems, methods, and apparatuses for amblyopia and ocular deviation correction are disclosed. In one aspect, embodiments of the present disclosure include a system for amblyopia correction, the system includes, an image processing unit to identify a set of image parameters and, when, in operation, the image processing unit modifies a source visual content based on one or more of the set of image parameters to generate visual content and a visualization unit coupled to the image processing unit operable to receive visual content from the image processing unit, the visualization unit having a screen, when, in operation, the screen displays the visual content. | 03-25-2010 |
20100177179 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ENHANCING FIELD OF VISION OF THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED - An apparatus and a method for enhancing a field of vision of a user with a visual impairment to help the user to navigate safely in the surroundings. The apparatus includes a body, at least one video device coupled to the body for recording a visual image of a physical environment surrounding the user, at least one monitor coupled to the body, a processor which receives signals from the at least one video device and operatively controls the at least one monitor to display the visual image recorded by the at least one video device, and a tunnel vision finder to determine the user's actual vision size. The method includes the step of determining the user's actual vision size, acquiring a visual image of a physical environment surrounding the user, processing the visual image, and displaying the visual image in the user's actual vision. | 07-15-2010 |
20100201793 | PORTABLE READING DEVICE WITH MODE PROCESSING - A reading device includes a computing device and an image input device coupled to the computing device for capturing low resolution images and high resolution images. The reading machine also includes a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium. The medium is in communication with the computing device and includes instructions to operate in a plurality of modes to optimize performance for specific uses of the reading device and process low and high resolution images during operation of at least one of the plurality of modes. | 08-12-2010 |
20100208045 | ASSISTANCE SYSTEM FOR VISUALLY HANDICAPPED PERSONS - An assistance system for visually handicapped persons with visual impair in a part of their visual field aims at providing a technical solution for these persons, informing them actively about objects or movements in the visually impaired side, by way of body-worn sensors. | 08-19-2010 |
20110043616 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DYNAMICALLY ENHANCING DEPTH PERCEPTION IN HEAD BORNE VIDEO SYSTEMS - Systems and methods for viewing image data. The system includes a head borne image source, a controller, an eyepiece lens assembly and a display device. The head borne image source images an object and provides the image data. The controller determines a focus adjustment from a focus position of the head borne image source. The display device receives and displays the image data to a user's eye via the eyepiece lens assembly. A distance between the eyepiece lens assembly and the display device is adjusted based on the focus adjustment responsive to the focus position. | 02-24-2011 |
20110216179 | Augmented Reality Panorama Supporting Visually Impaired Individuals - There is presented a system and method for providing real-time object recognition to a remote user. The system comprises a portable communication device including a camera, at least one client-server host device remote from and accessible by the portable communication device over a network, and a recognition database accessible by the client-server host device or devices. A recognition application residing on the client-server host device or devices is capable of utilizing the recognition database to provide real-time object recognition of visual imagery captured using the portable communication device to the remote user of the portable communication device. In one embodiment, a sighted assistant shares an augmented reality panorama with a visually impaired user of the portable communication device where the panorama is constructed from sensor data from the device. | 09-08-2011 |
20120127291 | System And Method For Alerting Visually Impaired Users Of Nearby Objects - A system and method for assisting a visually impaired user including an imaging device, a processing unit for receiving images from the imaging device and converting the images into signals for use by one or more controllers, and one or more vibro-tactile devices, wherein the one or more controllers activates one or more of the vibro-tactile devices in response to said signals received from the processing unit. The system preferably includes a lanyard means on which the one or more vibro-tactile devices are mounted, the lanyard means adapted to be worn around the neck of the user such that a first vibro-tactile device is arranged on the right side of the user's neck, a second vibro-tactile device on a left side of the user's neck, and a third vibro-tactile device at the back portion of the user's neck. The vibro-tactile devices are activated depending on a determined position in front of the user of an object and the distance from the user to the object. | 05-24-2012 |
20120147163 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR CREATING AUGMENTED REALITY FOR COLOR BLINDNESS - In an embodiment, an image is provided to an augmented reality application program. The program detects colors and modifies the image. In particular, the program may analyze an image of a scene provided by a camera of a portable electronic device that may be problematic for color challenged users. It then modifies one or more colors such that a color challenged user viewing the altered image may perceive the scene colors as the colors would be perceived by a non-color challenged user viewing the scene. | 06-14-2012 |
20120154561 | COMPACT ASSISTIVE READING DEVICE - A compact assistive reading device. A compact form factor is achieved through the use of an optical system with a pin hole aperture, which also obviates the needs for mirrors. One or more light sources are positioned outside the field of view of the optical system. A structure such as a prism film, patterned reflector or light pipe may be used to provide an illumination pattern that enhances the quality of images formed with the optical system. Additionally, processing components to recognize text, numbers or other information on an item placed in the imaging area of the optical system may be incorporated into a housing with the optical system. The housing contains features to facilitate easy insertion of an object into the imaging area and sensors to indicate when the object is properly positioned. The device may function as a currency reader. | 06-21-2012 |
20120212593 | USER WEARABLE VISUAL ASSISTANCE SYSTEM - A visual assistance device wearable by a person. The device includes a camera and a processor. The processor captures multiple image frames from the camera. A candidate image of an object is searched in the image frames. The candidate image may be classified as an image of a particular object or in a particular class of objects and is thereby recognized. The person is notified of an attribute related to the object. | 08-23-2012 |
20120212594 | Object Tracking for Artificial Vision - This invention concerns the tracking of objects in video data for artificial vision; for instance for a bionic eye. More particularly, the invention concerns a vision enhancement apparatus for a vision-impaired user. In other aspects, the invention concerns a method for enhancing vision and software to perform the method. The image processor operates to process video data representing images of a scene. Automatically detect and track a user selected object, such as a face, in the images. And, automatically modify the video data, by reserving a user selected area of the displayed images for displaying the tracked object as a separate video tile within the scene. The separate video tile remains in the selected area despite movement of the camera relative to the scene, or movement of the user relative to the object or the scene. | 08-23-2012 |
20120229614 | Information and Guidance System - The present invention is a navigation and assistance system for individual users traveling from a starting point to a desired destination. A communication device is provided that can communicate the user's GPS location coordinates to a guide person at a remote facility. The communication device also provides for verbal and audio communication between the user and their guide. One or more video cameras are mounted to or held by the user and are connected to the communication device for sending streaming video information from the one or more cameras to the guide person. With the video information regarding the user's immediate surroundings, their GPS location and the verbal and audio communication link with the user the guide person can provide information and directions to the user to as they move one location to another. | 09-13-2012 |
20120236134 | HANDHELD BRAILLE CONVERTING DEVICE, BRAILLE CONVERTING METHOD, BRAILLE CONVERTING PROGRAM, AND STORAGE MEDIUM - A handheld Braille converting device includes a Braille display unit, an image capturing element, a character recognition element, a Braille converting element, and a display control element to complete the process from the reading of the characters to the output of the Braille by itself. Also, the device has a size capable of being held by a single hand. The Braille display unit includes multiple single Braille display units each corresponding to one Braille character and each single Braille display unit includes multiple movable members. The display control element displays whether or not the relative position of the handheld Braille converting device is correct with respect to a character or character string existing in the captured image, by operating members included in a part of the single Braille display units. The display control element also displays Braille by operating members included in the other single Braille display units. | 09-20-2012 |
20120327203 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING GUIDING SERVICE IN PORTABLE TERMINAL - The present invention provides an apparatus and a method for a complementary walking service by a portable terminal. The method for providing the complementary walking service preferably includes obtaining an image of a walker's route, extracting at least one preliminary risk factor component from the image, checking risk factor data depending on a portable terminal and detecting risk factors existing in the walker's route by matching the preliminary factor risk factor component to the risk factor data. | 12-27-2012 |
20130141556 | VIEWING AID WITH TRACKING SYSTEM, AND METHOD OF USE - A viewing aid includes a camera, a viewing surface within a field of view of the camera, a memory, a display, and software programmed to track a tracking element within the field of view. Viewing material is placed on the viewing surface. The camera, viewing surface, and material all remain substantially stationary. The camera captures and stores an initial image of the material in the memory. The software then tracks the location of a tracking element within the field of view then maps the location to a portion of the initial image in memory using an X-Y coordinate system, and/or identifies character elements of the material adjacent the tracking element then maps the character elements to corresponding character elements of the initial image in memory. An enhanced image is then displayed on the display corresponding to the mapped portion of the initial image. | 06-06-2013 |
20130194402 | REPRESENTING VISUAL IMAGES BY ALTERNATIVE SENSES - A method of representing visual images by alternative senses is provided herein. The method includes the following stages: obtaining an image of an environment having a background and physical objects distinguishable from the background; slicing the image into a plurality of slices; identifying, for each slice at a time, and slice by slice in a specified order, if at least a portion of the physical objects being contained within the slice; applying, in the specified order, a conversion function to each identified portion of the physical objects for generating a sound or tactile object-dependent signal; associating a sound or tactile location-dependent signal unique for each slice; superpositioning, in the specified order, each object-dependent signal with a respective location-dependent signal for creating a combined object-location signal; and outputting the combined object-location signal to a user via an interface in a form usable for a blind or visually impaired person. | 08-01-2013 |
20130201308 | VISUAL BLIND-GUIDING METHOD AND INTELLIGENT BLIND-GUIDING DEVICE THEREOF - A visual blind-guiding method is disclosed, which includes the following steps: (1) shooting a black-and-white image, and extracting profile information from the black-and-white image to reduce detail elements and refine the image, so as to obtain an object profile signal; (2) according to ergonomic features, converting the object profile signal into a serial signal, and conveying the serial signal to an image feeling instrument, where the image feeling instrument converts the serial signal into a mechanical tactile signal to emit feeler pin stimulation, an intermittent picture touch mode is used with respect to the speed of touch for vision, and an appropriate human-sensitive feeler pin array is adopted with respect to the quantity, so that the blind can really touch a shape of an object. | 08-08-2013 |
20130222561 | Guide System Having Function of Real-Time Voice Response for the Visually Impaired and Method Thereof - The present invention is directed to a guide system having a function of a real-time voice response for the visually impaired and a method thereof. The guide system responds road conditions in real time using two processing modules performing image processing and voice responses, respectively. The guide system includes an visual sensing module sensing an image, a memory storing multiple training samples and multiple pieces of audio response information, an image processing module performing an image detection process to the image so as to create at least a segmented image, performing an object detection process to the segmented image, and performing an object recognition process so as to create a recognition signal, a system processing module creating an audio signal based on the recognition signal such that a speech voice is hearable by a user. | 08-29-2013 |
20130250078 | VISUAL AID - A visual aid system, device and method is provided. The visual aid system may include an imaging unit to capture images of a user's surroundings, a knowledge database to store object recognition information for a plurality of image objects, an object recognition module to match and identify an object imaged in one or more captured images with an object in the knowledge database, and an output device to output a non-visual indication of the identified object. | 09-26-2013 |
20130258078 | GUIDE DEVICE FOR THE BLIND - A guide device includes a detection module, a processor, and an alarming module. The detection module captures road images in front of a blind person. The processor includes a calculating module and a comparing module. The calculating module calculates an actual height of an obstacle object of the road images. The comparing module compares the actual height with a pre-set critical height. The alarming module reminds the blind person that there is an obstacle object in front of the blind person when the actual height is greater than the critical height. | 10-03-2013 |
20130265400 | Image Capture and Identification System and Process - A digital image of the object is captured and the object is recognized from plurality of objects in a database. An information address corresponding to the object is then used to access information and initiate communication pertinent to the object. | 10-10-2013 |
20130271584 | USER WEARABLE VISUAL ASSISTANCE DEVICE - A device wearable by a person including a processor operatively connectible to a camera. The processor is adapted to capture multiple image frames, is operable to detect motion of a gesture by using differences between the image frames and to classify the gesture responsive to the detected motion. | 10-17-2013 |
20130300845 | System and Method for Digital Video Retrieval Involving Speech Recognition - Disclosed are systems, methods, and computer readable media for retrieving digital images. The method embodiment includes converting a descriptive audio stream of a digital video that is provided for the visually impaired to text and then aligning that text to the appropriate segment of the digital video. The system then indexes the converted text from the descriptive audio stream with the text's relationship to the digital video. The system enables queries using action words describing a desired scene from a digital video. | 11-14-2013 |
20130335543 | Apparatus and Method for Enhancing Human Visual Performance in a Head Worn Video System - Visual impairment, or vision impairment, refers to the vision loss of an individual to such a degree as to require additional support for one or more aspects of their life. Such a significant limitation of visual capability may result from disease, trauma, congenital, and/or degenerative conditions that cannot be corrected by conventional means, such as refractive correction, such as eyeglasses or contact lenses, medication, or surgery. According to embodiments of the invention a method of augmenting a user's sight is provided comprising obtaining an image of a scene using a camera carried by the individual, transmitting the obtained image to a processor, selecting an algorithm of a plurality of spectral, spatial, and temporal image modification algorithms to be applied to the image by the processor, modifying the image using the algorithm substantially in real time, and displaying the modified image on a display device worn by the individual. | 12-19-2013 |
20130342666 | ASSISTANCE SYSTEM FOR VISUALLY HANDICAPPED PERSONS - An assistance system for visually handicapped persons with visual impairment in a part of their visual field includes body-worn sensors to inform them actively about objects or movements in the visually impaired sides. | 12-26-2013 |
20140009591 | VISION AID WITH THREE-DIMENSIONAL IMAGE ACQUISITION - The task of providing a device which makes it possible for the natural visual faculty of a partially vision-impaired person to be restored or supported as realistically as possible by means of a visual aid or visual prosthesis is achieved with the visual aid according to the invention in that, beyond the pure acquisition of a two-dimensional image, additional information is included in the image processing. For this purpose, a visual aid system is proposed which, during the reproduction of the processed image, visualizes additional information regarding the spatial position and/or specific attributes of objects in the acquired image which is associated with objects in the acquired image. The present invention thus affords the advantage that a three-dimensional image of the current environment of the user can be acquired owing to the fact that the image visualized to the user by the visual aid system according to the invention comprises additional information, for example, about the relative distance of the objects contained in the image and a depth-selective representation of the acquired image can thus be achieved. | 01-09-2014 |
20140036049 | Obstacle Avoidance for the Visually Impaired - A device for converting two images of the environment into sounds that a visually impaired person can relate to the direction and distance to objects in the physical environment. It can provide a blind person with enough information to move about and be aware of barriers. | 02-06-2014 |
20140085446 | OPTICAL DEVICE FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED - The present invention provides an optical device for a visually-impaired individual and a method of operating such a device. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a spaced array of discrete light sources and a support arranged to maintain the array in proximate relation to at least one eye of the visually-impaired individual. An image capture device is configured to capture images of at least part of the individual's immediate environment, wherein the array is configured to convey information to the individual by selectively illuminating one or more of the discrete light sources based on the content of the captured images. In this way, information relating to objects and/or textual language in the individual's environment can be conveyed to the individual by predetermined patterns of illumination (e.g. spatial and/or temporal). The apparatus and method are found to be particularly suited for visually-impaired individuals who retain at least some residual light and/or colour discrimination. | 03-27-2014 |
20140085447 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING A DEVICE FOR AIDING VISION - An input signal (f) representative of a scene to be viewed comprises, for each pixel of a matrix of pixels, an event-based asynchronous-signal sequence obtained as a function of variations of light relating to the pixel in the scene. This input signal is transformed spatially within the matrix of pixels and temporally along the signal sequences to generate respective control signals (S) for pixel zones of a device for aiding vision ( | 03-27-2014 |
20140146150 | TELEVISION SYSTEM AND IMAGE DISPLAY METHOD THEREOF - A television device and an image display method thereof are provided. The television devices includes an image color converter configured to generate image data, after color conversion, wherein the image data is configured for a person with a color vision deficiency for an area which is selected based on selection area information from a terminal device which selects the area or a plurality of areas from a screen layout, a display data generator configured to generate display data based on the image data and color conversion information which is generated by the image color converter, a display configured to display the display data, and a layout information extractor configured to extract layout information corresponding to the screen layout of the image data. | 05-29-2014 |
20140152787 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PHYSICALLY DISABLED PERSONS TO READ E-PUBLICATIONS - A system for assisting individuals (e.g., those having physical or other disabilities) to read or otherwise experience electronic publications includes a projector having an optical projection assembly located at an end of an articulating arm assembly and configured to project images of an electronic publication and a controller that is sized and contoured to fit comfortably within or be held by a human hand. The controller may include a processor and a storage device communicatively coupled to the processor, which storage device stores processor-executable instructions for providing, via a wireless communication channel and responsive to one or more user inputs, one or more instructions in connection with projection of the images of the electronic publication via the projector. | 06-05-2014 |
20140176689 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ASSISTING THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED IN OBJECT RECOGNITION - An apparatus and method for assisting object recognition are provided. The method includes detecting at least one object in an image, determining which of the at least one object is selected by a user, providing feedback to the user so as to enable the user to center the selected object within the image, and capturing an image of the selected object in which the selected object is centered within the image. | 06-26-2014 |
20140210970 | CENTRAL VISION IMPAIRMENT COMPENSATION - A method, system, and processor-readable medium for non-invasive visual compensation for a person suffering from central vision impairment. Digital images of a target field of view can he obtained and processed to generate processed images thereof, wherein central regions of the digital images that normally would reach an impaired portion of a retina of the person are moved to other regions of the target field of view. The processed images can be presented to the person such that the central regions are now directed at an unimpaired peripheral portion of the retina of the person. | 07-31-2014 |
20140218493 | Augmented Reality Panorama Supporting Visually Impaired Individuals - There is presented a system and method for providing real-time object recognition to a remote user. The system comprises a portable communication device including a camera, at least one client-server host device remote from and accessible by the portable communication device over a network, and a recognition database accessible by the client-server host device or devices. A recognition application residing on the client-server host device or devices is capable of utilizing the recognition database to provide real-time object recognition of visual imagery captured using the portable communication device to the remote user of the portable communication device. In one embodiment, a sighted assistant shares an augmented reality panorama with a visually impaired user of the portable communication device where the panorama is constructed from sensor data from the device. | 08-07-2014 |
20140247331 | EYEWEAR TO ALLEVIATE EFFECTS OF MACULAR DEGENERATION - A system includes human-wearable eyewear that utilizes an imager in communication with displays via a microprocessor to transform the central pixels of an image into a ring shaped image that may be presented on the displays. Patients with macular degeneration may be enabled to visualize the central pixels of an image using their peripheral vision. Various lenses are also disclosed for providing an optical-only solution for producing a ring-shaped image. | 09-04-2014 |
20140253701 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ANALYZING IMAGES - An apparatus is provided for audibly reading text retrieved from a captured image. In one implementation, the apparatus comprises an image sensor configured to capture image data from an environment of a user, and at least one processor. The processor is configured to determine an existence of a pointing trigger in the image data, the trigger being associated with a user's desire to hear text read aloud, and wherein the trigger identifies an intermediate portion of the text a distance from a level break in the text. The processor is further configured to perform a layout analysis on the text to identify a level break associated with the trigger; and cause the text to be read aloud from the level break associated with the trigger. | 09-11-2014 |
20140253702 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR EXECUTING SYSTEM COMMANDS BASED ON CAPTURED IMAGE DATA - An apparatus and method are provided for identifying and executing system commands based on captured image data. In one implementation, a method is provided for executing at least one command retrieved from a captured image. According to the method, image data is received from an image sensor, and the image data may include printed information associated with a specific system commands. The method further includes accessing a database including a plurality of predefined system commands associated with printed information, and identifying in the image data an existence of the printed information associated with the specific system command stored in the database. The specific system command is executed after the printed information associated with the specific system command is identified. | 09-11-2014 |
20140267642 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR AUDIBLE FACIAL RECOGNITION - A device and method are provided for audible facial recognition. In one implementation, an apparatus for aiding a visually impaired user to identify individuals is provided. The apparatus may include a portable image sensor configured to be worn by the visually impaired user and to capture real-time image data from an environment of the user. The apparatus may also include at least one portable processor device configured to determine an existence of face-identifying information in the real-time image data, and access stored facial information and audible indicators. The at least one portable processor device may also be configured to compare the face-identifying information with the stored facial information, and identify a match. Based on the match, the at least one portable processor may be configured to cause an audible indicator to be announced to the visually impaired user. | 09-18-2014 |
20140267643 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR AUTOMATIC CONTROL OF A CONTINUOUS ACTION - A device and method are provided for automatic control of a continuous action. In one implementation, an apparatus for providing feedback to a user is provided. The apparatus may include an image sensor configured to be positioned for movement with a head of a user. The image sensor may also be configured to capture real time images from an environment of the user as the user's head moves. The apparatus may also include at least one processor device configured to process at least one image to identify an existence of an object within a field of view of the image sensor and to initiate a continuous action associated with the object. The processing device may also be configured to suspend the continuous action associated with the object when the object moves outside the field of view of the image sensor. | 09-18-2014 |
20140267644 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PERFORMING A TRIGGERED ACTION - A device and method are provided for performing a triggered action. In one implementation, an apparatus for processing real time images of an environment of a user is provided. The apparatus may include an image sensor configured to capture image data for providing a plurality of sequential images of the environment of the user. The apparatus may also include at least one processor device configured to identify a trigger associated with a desire of the user to cause at least one pre-defined action associated with an object. The trigger may include an erratic movement of the object. In response to identification of the trigger, the at least one processor device may also be configured to identify a captured representation of the object. Based on at least the captured representation of the object, the at least one processor device may be configured to execute the at least one pre-defined action. | 09-18-2014 |
20140267645 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING FEEDBACK BASED ON THE STATE OF AN OBJECT - A device and method are provided for providing feedback based on the state of an object. In one implementation, an apparatus for processing images is provided. The apparatus may include an image sensor configured to capture real time images from an environment of a user and at least one processor device configured to initially process at least one image to determine whether an object is likely to change its state. If a determination is made that the object is unlikely to change its state, the at least one processor device may additionally process the at least one image and provide a first feedback. If a determination is made that the object is likely to change its state, the at least one processor device may continue to capture images of the object and alert the user with a second feedback after a change in the state of the object occurs. | 09-18-2014 |
20140267646 | APPARATUS CONNECTABLE TO GLASSES - An apparatus connectable to a pair of glasses provides information to a user by processing images captured from the environment of the user. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a support configured for mounting on the pair of glasses and a sensory unit. The sensory unit includes a housing configured for selective attachment to the support and an image sensor contained within the housing. The support and the housing are configured to enable selective aiming of the image sensor to establish a set aiming direction relative to the pair of glasses. The support and the housing are configured to cooperate with each other such that each time the sensory unit is attached to the support, the image sensor assumes the set aiming direction without need for directional calibration. | 09-18-2014 |
20140267647 | APPARATUS, METHOD, AND COMPUTER READABLE MEDIUM FOR RECOGNIZING TEXT ON A CURVED SURFACE - A device and method are provided for recognizing text on a curved surface. In one implementation, the device comprises an image sensor configured to capture from an environment of a user multiple images of text on a curved surface. The device also comprises at least one processor device. The at least one processor device is configured to receive a first image of a first perspective of text on the curved surface, receive a second image of a second perspective of the text on the curved surface, perform optical character recognition on at least parts of each of the first image and the second image, combine results of the optical character recognition on the first image and on the second image, and provide the user with a recognized representation of the text, including a recognized representation of the first portion of text. | 09-18-2014 |
20140267648 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING FAILED-ATTEMPT FEEDBACK USING A CAMERA ON GLASSES - Apparatuses and a method are provided for providing feedback to a user, who may be visually-impaired. In one implementation, a method is provided for providing feedback to a visually impaired user. The method comprises receiving from a mobile image sensor real time image data that includes a representation of an object in an environment of the visually impaired user. The mobile image sensor is configured to be connected to glasses worn by the visually impaired user. Further, the method comprises receiving a signal indicating a desire of the visually impaired user to obtain information about the object. The method also includes accessing a database holding information about a plurality of objects, and comparing information derived from the received real time image data with information in the database. The method comprises providing the visually impaired user with nonvisual feedback that the object is not locatable in the database. | 09-18-2014 |
20140267649 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATIC ACTION SELECTION BASED ON IMAGE CONTEXT - Devices and a method are provided for providing context-related feedback to a user. In one implementation, the method comprises capturing real time image data from an environment of the user. The method further comprises identifying in the image data a hand-related trigger. Multiple context-based alternative actions are associated with the hand-related trigger. Further, the method comprises identifying in the image data an object associated with the hand-related trigger. The object is further associated with a particular context. Also, the method comprises selecting one of the multiple alternative actions based on the particular context. The method further comprises outputting the context-related feedback based on a result of the executed alternative action. | 09-18-2014 |
20140267650 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR HIERARCHICAL OBJECT IDENTIFICATION USING A CAMERA ON GLASSES - Apparatuses and a method are provided for providing environmental information to a user, who may be visually impaired. In one implementation, a method is provided for receiving real time image data including an object within the user environment. The method includes identifying a hand-related trigger in the image data. Upon identifying the hand-related trigger, the method includes executing a first search in the image data in an attempt to identify at least one object from a first category of objects. After initiating the first search, the method includes executing a second search in the image data in an attempt to identify at least one object from a second category of objects that differs from the first. The method also includes outputting audible feedback to the user associated with information related to an object or objects identified in the image data. | 09-18-2014 |
20140267651 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR USING BACKGROUND CHANGE TO DETERMINE CONTEXT - Devices and a method are provided for providing feedback to a user. In one implementation, the method comprises obtaining a plurality of images from an image sensor. The image sensor is configured to be positioned for movement with the user's head. The method further comprises monitoring the images, and determining whether relative motion occurs between a first portion of a scene captured in the plurality of images and other portions of the scene captured in the plurality of images. If the first portion of the scene moves less than at least one other portion of the scene, the method comprises obtaining contextual information from the first portion of the scene. The method further comprises providing the feedback to the user based on at least part of the contextual information. | 09-18-2014 |
20140307070 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SOUNDING A MESSAGE IDENTIFYING A CONTENT SOURCE TO A USER DURING AN ADVERTISEMENT - Systems and methods for assisting a user in content selection are provided. A user request to access a content source may be received. Content from the content source may be received in response to the user request. A determination may be made as to whether the content received from the content source is an advertisement. An identifier of the content source may be retrieved from memory. The identifier of the content source may be cross-referenced with a database of audible messages to retrieve an audible message associated with the content source. The audible message may be played to identify the content source to the user in response to determining that the content received from the content source is an advertisement. | 10-16-2014 |
20140375782 | SMART PROSTHESIS FOR FACILITATING ARTIFICIAL VISION USING SCENE ABSTRACTION - A method of providing artificial vision to a visually-impaired user implanted with a visual prosthesis. The method includes configuring, in response to selection information received from the user, a smart prosthesis to perform at least one function of a plurality of functions in order to facilitate performance of a visual task. The method further includes extracting, from an input image signal generated in response to optical input representative of a scene, item information relating to at least one item within the scene relevant to the visual task. The smart prosthesis then generates image data corresponding to an abstract representation of the scene wherein the abstract representation includes a representation of the at least one item. Pixel information based upon the image data is then provided to the visual prosthesis. | 12-25-2014 |
20150070479 | Obstacle Avoidance Using Mobile Devices - Methods, systems, and products estimate distances to aid a visually impaired user of a mobile device. As the user carries the mobile device, a camera in the mobile device captures images of a walking cane. The images of the walking cane are analyzed to infer a distance between a tip of the walking cane and the mobile device. The distance may then used by navigational tools to aid the visually impaired user. | 03-12-2015 |
20150310767 | Wireless Typoscope - A wireless typoscope displays an enhanced image of an object to a person with poor vision. The wireless typoscope includes an image capture unit having (a) a camera for capturing an image of the object and (b) a wireless transmission unit, and a handheld image display unit having a touch screen. The image capture unit wirelessly transmits the image to the handheld image display unit which enhances and displays the image on the touch screen. | 10-29-2015 |
20150312447 | VISUAL IMAGE DEVICE AND METHOD - A system for providing an alternate method of video game control comprising a visual imaging device attached to an apparatus of some sort to then be worn, held, or connected in some way to a living body, a computer processing unit connected to the visual imaging device, a video game console controller connected to the computer processing unit, multiple motors attached to the apparatus that is meant to be worn, held or attached to a living body, which are connected to the computer processing unit; and a method of providing directional input to a user including the steps of capturing a reference image having at least one reference point, storing the captured image and reference point in a data base, sequentially capturing subsequent moving images each having at least one reference point, storing the sequentially subsequent moving images and at least one reference points in a data base, calculating variations between the at least one reference point from the reference from the reference image and subsequent moving images to generate a signal representing movement of the reference points. | 10-29-2015 |
20150324646 | NAVIGATION METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED - According to some aspects, a wearable device for estimating a location of the device within a space is provided, the device comprising a plurality of cameras mounted to a structure, at least a portion of the structure being adapted to facilitate a user wearing the device, the plurality of cameras having substantially fixed positions and orientations on the structure relative to each other, and at least one processor configured to receive image data from the plurality of cameras, perform feature detection on the image data to obtain a first plurality of features from the image data, and determine an estimate of the location of the device in the space based, at least in part, on a location associated with a second plurality of features obtained from image data previously captured of the space that matches the first plurality of features. | 11-12-2015 |
20150339531 | IDENTIFYING AN OBSTACLE IN A ROUTE - A system and computer implemented method for identifying an object in a route is disclosed. The method may include capturing a first set of images during a first traversal of a first route. The method may also include capturing a second set of images during a second traversal of the first route. The method may also include identifying, by comparing the first set of images with the second set of images, an object in the second set of images meeting an obstruction criteria. The method may also include providing a notification of the object which was identified as meeting the obstruction criteria. | 11-26-2015 |
20150339951 | IDENTIFYING AN OBSTACLE IN A ROUTE - A system and computer implemented method for identifying an object in a route is disclosed. The method may include capturing a first set of images during a first traversal of a first route. The method may also include capturing a second set of images during a second traversal of the first route. The method may also include identifying, by comparing the first set of images with the second set of images, an object in the second set of images meeting an obstruction criteria. The method may also include providing a notification of the object which was identified as meeting the obstruction criteria. | 11-26-2015 |
20160005334 | METHOD AND GUIDE CANE FOR GUIDING THE BLIND - Guiding the blind includes receiving, via a camera module, a signal sent from a processing module to instruct the camera module to take an image of an informational blind pathway including a digital object identifier, capturing, via the camera module, the image of the informational blind pathway, sending, via the camera module, the image to the processing module, receiving and analyzing, via the processing module, the image sent by the camera module, acquiring, via the processing module, information included in the digital object identifier in the image of the informational blind pathway, converting, via the processing module, the information included in the digital object identifier into speech information, and outputting the speech information to be played on an audio device. | 01-07-2016 |
20160063893 | MEDIA STREAMING METHODS, APPARATUS AND SYSTEMS - Techniques and systems are provided for assisting a user through a guidance mode activity. Such a user may be visually or otherwise impaired, or a user requiring help for other reasons. In some embodiments, a client device, held or worn by the user, may comprise a video capture device and several sensors, and may send video data and sensor data to a server. The server may comprise a processor and artificial intelligence. The server may send the video data and sensor data to an agent device. The agent device may provide content for display on an agent interface. An agent may view the agent interface, and assist the user in real time through audio instructions or other feedback. | 03-03-2016 |
20160104453 | IMAGE TRANSFORMING VISION ENHANCEMENT DEVICE - Image transforming vision enhancement device that enhances vision by transforming images provided by one or more cameras into modified images projected on one or more displays. The system may be embedded in glasses, contact lenses, binoculars, or other vision devices, in computer screens, or in components of moving vehicles. Image transformations may include modifying colors to assist colorblind users or to highlight color ranges, mapping invisible frequencies into visible colors, adding labels or graphics, and generating time-varying images with flashing or changing features. Images from multiple cameras may be combined, providing users with panoramic vision from a single device. Low light vision may be enhanced, and excessive glare may be attenuated. The system may magnify images with a variable magnification. User interfaces may be provided to configure and customize the image transformations. | 04-14-2016 |
20160127698 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DETECTING OBJECTS - Various embodiments are described herein for an electronic device and associated method for detecting potential objects in the vicinity of the electronic device. In one example embodiment, the electronic device may comprise a transceiver arm including a transceiver for transmitting source signals and receiving response signals potentially indicating at least one object in the vicinity of the user, a main body that is pivotally connected to the transceiver arm to releasably mount to an article of the user during use and include at least one processing unit for generating a feedback control signal indicating when there is at least one detected potential object in the vicinity of the user based on the response signals; and a transducer movably coupled to the main body for providing feedback to the user based on the feedback control signal when there is at least one detected potential object in the vicinity of the user. | 05-05-2016 |
20160171908 | IMAGING DEVICES INCLUDING SPACING MEMBERS AND IMAGING DEVICES INCLUDING TACTILE FEEDBACK DEVICES | 06-16-2016 |
20160379593 | IMAGE TRANSFORMING VISION ENHANCEMENT DEVICE - Image transforming vision enhancement device that enhances vision by transforming images provided by one or more cameras into modified images projected on one or more displays. The system may be embedded in glasses, contact lenses, binoculars, or other vision devices, in computer screens, or in components of moving vehicles. Image transformations may include modifying colors to assist colorblind users or to highlight color ranges, mapping invisible frequencies into visible colors, adding labels or graphics, and generating time-varying images with flashing or changing features. Images from multiple cameras may be combined, providing users with panoramic vision from a single device. Low light vision may be enhanced, and excessive glare may be attenuated. The system may magnify images with a variable magnification. User interfaces may be provided to configure and customize the image transformations. | 12-29-2016 |
20180021161 | WEARABLE COMPUTING DEVICE HAVING A CURVED BACK TO REDUCE PRESSURE ON VERTEBRAE | 01-25-2018 |
348063000 | Image magnifying | 21 |
20110074940 | Electronic Magnification Device - Disclosed is a magnification device for use by blind and/or low vision individuals. The device includes an X-Y table upon which an item to be magnified can be placed. A stationary camera arm and a pivotal monitor arm are oriented over the X-Y table. The monitor arm includes a video monitor pivotally mounted at its distal end. The camera arm also includes two laterally disposed lighting arms. A series of controls are provided along a lower edge of the monitor via a mounting bracket. | 03-31-2011 |
20110141256 | Retainer for Electronic Magnification Device - Disclosed is a magnification device for use by blind and/or low vision individuals. The device includes an X-Y table upon which an item to be magnified can be placed. A stationary camera arm and a pivotal monitor arm are oriented over the X-Y table. The monitor arm includes a video monitor pivotally mounted at its distal end. The camera arm also includes two laterally disposed lighting arms. A series of controls are provided along a lower edge of the monitor via a mounting bracket. | 06-16-2011 |
20120307026 | Multiposition Handheld Electronic Magnifier - Disclosed is a magnifier for use by blind or low vision users. The magnifier includes a camera, such as a CMOS image sensor, that displays enlarged images upon a screen for easy viewing. The magnifier further includes a handle that is pivotally interconnected to a housing to allow for handheld use in a variety of different configurations. | 12-06-2012 |
20130113903 | IMAGE MAGNIFICATION METHOD AND APPARATUS - A magnifying method is provided in which a mobile communication device is configured to: decrease an active resolution of an imaging module of the mobile communication device while imaging an item; process the decreased active resolution being output by the imaging module to produce a magnified image of the portion of the item; increase a scaling factor of the magnified image to further magnify the magnified image; and output frames for displaying a magnified version of the portion of the item. | 05-09-2013 |
20140022364 | Multiposition Magnifier Camera - A portable magnifier camera with an associated display housing, base and handle. The camera can be selectively positioned into a variety of configurations, including: a first closed configuration wherein the display and base are in facing relation; a second opened configuration wherein the display is angled with respect to the base; and a third hand-held configuration wherein a handle is pivoted outwardly to permit a user to hold the camera relative to a distant object. The angle of the camera adjusts automatically in each configuration to ensure that the camera's light of slight is perpendicular to the object plane. These configurations enable a user to effectively view objects of differing size and at varying distances. | 01-23-2014 |
20140146151 | Vision Assistive Devices and User Interfaces - Vision assistive device and user interface are disclosed. In some embodiments, a vision assistive device includes a housing having a base for positioning the housing on a surface; one or more imaging units disposed along a top portion of the housing, each imaging unit being angled downward so a central axis of the imaging unit forms an acute angle with the surface so the imaging unit captures a target image from a target object; and a control system accommodated within the housing, the control system being connected to the one or more imaging units to process the target image captured by each imaging unit and to output the target image to a user. | 05-29-2014 |
20140152788 | Multi-Tablet Projector - An adaptive projector to project an image from a digital device may include an adaptive socket to cooperate with the digital device, a image sensor to sense a image from the digital device and a projector screen to project the image from the digital device. The adaptive socket may be adaptable to remove and replace the digital device. | 06-05-2014 |
20140176690 | MAGNIFICATION SYSTEM - A magnification system which allows viewing a magnified representation of an object is provided. The magnification system includes two main components: a handheld device and a base station. The handheld device is provided with a camera module, a processing unit and, optionally, a display unit. The base station has a frame structure and, optionally, a monitor. The frame structure includes a cradle for receiving the handheld device. The handheld device can function as a stand-alone device and can be carried around for use outside of the home or office or, generally, away from the base station, or it can be mounted on the base station where images of documents or other objects disposed on a workspace of the frame structure can be acquired by the camera module of the handheld device and shown on the monitor through the processing unit. | 06-26-2014 |
20140184763 | Desktop Electronic Magnifier - A desktop electronic magnifier in a first embodiment includes a monitor and a control panel mounted to the monitor so that access to the control panel cannot be blocked by any position of the monitor. In a second embodiment, a monitor is positioned atop a flat platform that surmounts the camera so that access to the control panel cannot be blocked by any position of the monitor. In a third embodiment, the control panel is mounted to the camera and the monitor is supported by a support surface independent of the magnifier. Access to the control panel is blocked only if the user positions the monitor in blocking relation to the control panel. | 07-03-2014 |
20140267652 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROCESSING IMAGES - A apparatus and method are provided for processing images. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes an image sensor configured to capture real time images from an environment of a user. The apparatus also includes a mobile power source, and at least one processor device configured to process, at an initial resolution, images to determine existence of a trigger, and access rules associating image context with image capture resolution to enable images of a first context to be processed at a lower capture resolution than images of a second context. The processor device analyzes at least one first image, selects a first image capture resolution rule, and applies the first image capture resolution rule to a subsequent captured image. The processor device analyzes at least one second image, selects a second image capture resolution rule, and applies the second image capture resolution rule to a second subsequent captured image. | 09-18-2014 |
20140300715 | IMAGE MAGNIFYING APPARATUS - Disclosed herein is an image magnifying apparatus which automatically brings a target into focus using a diopter lens depending on whether the target is at a short distance or at a long distance. The orientation of a camera and short- or long-distance focusing of a camera lens can be automatically controlled to provide a clear image to a user, whereby even a user with low vision, a blind user, an aged user, a hand tremor user, etc. can easily use the apparatus. Furthermore, the present invention provides lighting suitable for user environment, thus providing a clear image to the user. | 10-09-2014 |
20140347457 | Multiposition Handheld Electronic Magnifier - Disclosed is a magnifier for use by blind or low vision users. The magnifier includes a camera, such as a CMOS image sensor, that displays enlarged images upon a screen for easy viewing. The magnifier further includes a handle that is pivotally interconnected to a housing to allow for handheld use in a variety of different configurations. | 11-27-2014 |
20140368627 | SYSTEM FOR DISPLAY OF VISUAL MATERIAL TO THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED - The invention relates to a system for the display of a visual material, in particular an aid system for the visually impaired, comprising a camera to depict the visual material and a screen for controlled display of the material. The system also comprises a control unit, comprised of a user interface set up to communicate one or more commands to the system, where the commands include indication of at least one unique position for the visual material, and a communication part to communicate instructions to a camera, said instructions comprise given positions for the visual material, and where the camera comprises a control part that controls the camera to provide an image of the chosen visual material at the given positions. | 12-18-2014 |
20140375783 | Electronic Magnification Device - Disclosed is a magnification device for use by blind and/or low vision individuals. The device includes an X-Y table upon which an item to be magnified can be placed. A stationary camera arm and a pivotal monitor arm are oriented over the X-Y table. The monitor arm includes a video monitor pivotally mounted at its distal end. The camera arm also includes two laterally disposed lighting arms. A series of controls are provided along a lower edge of the monitor via a mounting bracket. | 12-25-2014 |
20150092031 | Lighting Arrangement for Magnification Device - Disclosed is a magnification device for use by blind and/or low vision individuals. The device includes an X-Y table upon which an item to be magnified can be placed. A stationary camera arm and a pivotal monitor arm are oriented over the X-Y table. The monitor arm includes a video monitor pivotally mounted at its distal end. The camera arm also includes two laterally disposed lighting arms. A series of controls are provided along a lower edge of the monitor via a mounting bracket. | 04-02-2015 |
20150103154 | DUAL AUDIO VIDEO OUTPUT DEVICES WITH ONE DEVICE CONFIGURED FOR THE SENSORY IMPAIRED - An apparatus includes at least one processor and at least one computer readable storage medium. The computer readable storage medium is accessible to the processor and bears instructions which when executed by the processor cause the processor to receive input representing visual, audio and/or cognitive capabilities of a first person and at least in part based on the input, configure at least a first setting on a first audio video output device. The instructions also cause the processor to present a first audio video presentation on the first audio video output device in accordance with the first setting, and concurrently with presenting the first audio video presentation on the first audio video output device, present the first audio video presentation on a companion audio video output device located in a common space with the first audio video output device. | 04-16-2015 |
20150302773 | See Through Display enabling the correction of visual deficits - A See-Through Display System with the ability to correct visual deficits such as presbyopia, color blindness and poor night vision is disclosed. This invention enables the correction of visual deficits using camera(s), microdisplay(s), controlling circuit(s) and see through optics such as free form lens/mirror, half-mirror, diffractive and/or holographic optical element(s). | 10-22-2015 |
20150316774 | System and Method for Processing a Video Signal With Reduced Latency - Disclosed is a video processor for a magnifier camera. In particular, the disclosure relates to a video processor that eliminates the use of a frame buffer. This, in turn, reduces the latency otherwise present in the video signal. The disclosed video processor also allows selected portions of the display to be shaded. This highlights the non-shaded portions of the display while at the same time allowing the entire object to be perceived by the user. | 11-05-2015 |
20150359681 | NON-INVASIVE VISION ENHANCEMENT - A method and system are provided for enhancing vision. The method includes capturing a first image by a first camera. The method further includes capturing a second image by a second camera. The method also includes combining the first image and the second image to form a combined image. The method additionally includes projecting the combined image on at least one eye of a user by a wearable image projection device. The combined image represents a wide screen image having a field of view greater than any of the first image and the second image taken individually | 12-17-2015 |
20160057322 | Portable Desktop Video Magnifier Camera - Disclosed is a portable magnifier camera with both storage and deployed configurations. In the storage configuration, the entire assembly can be carried via an associated handle. The camera is designed to rest on a desktop, or other planar surface, in the deployed configuration. When deployed, a housing and camera arm are positioned in a cantilevered arrangement over top of an object to be viewed. A camera housing, with an associated camera, is pivotally connected to the camera arm and is positioned over the object upon the camera being placed into a deployed configuration. | 02-25-2016 |
20160156850 | Methods and Apparatus for Vision Enhancement | 06-02-2016 |