Thermal imaging aid for the blind.

To explore the efficacy of using a far infrared thermal camera with a haptic display to assist blind people in identifying humans, we performed experiments with a prototype device on five low-vision (functionally blind) subjects. Infrared allows for easy detection of human shape due to typically high contrast in temperatures from a person against their surrounding environment. Infrared cameras can be made small and inexpensive with uncooled microbolometer technology. Our study showed a great willingness by the blind subjects to use such a device after a short training session and both successful and unsuccessful operation. Future work will further develop the technology and undertake more expansive testing.