GB2624218A

GB2624218A - A cane for use as a navigational aid for a visually impaired person

Info

Publication number: GB2624218A
Application number: GB2216811.6A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Nelson Omeh Nnamdi
Original assignee: Viewguide Ltd
Current assignee: Viewguide Ltd
Priority date: 2022-11-10
Filing date: 2022-11-10
Publication date: 2024-05-15
Also published as: GB202216811D0

Abstract

A cane 1 for use as a navigational aid for a visually impaired person, wherein the cane comprises an audio recorder 5. Also disclosed is a kit of parts comprising a cane 1 and an audio recorder 5, wherein the cane comprises audio recorder receiving means to receive the audio recorder. The audio recorder may; be configured to record audio to a removable memory 6, comprise first and second microphones 5 to receive audio waves from first and second regions R1, R2 respectively; and may be configured to play audio. The cane 1 may comprise; a user operable switch 16a provided on a handle 2 of the cane to switch the audio recorder on and off; a vibration alert generator to provide alert vibration whilst the audio recorder is recording audio; and an object detection system, comprising a wave transmitting and receiving systems and an alert generating system.

Description

A CANE FOR USE AS A NAVIGATIONAL AID FOR A VISUALLY IMPAIRED

PERSON

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a cane for use as a navigational aid, by a visually impaired person. In particular the cane is for identifying obstacles in the path of a visually impaired person.

Background of the Invention

A cane, typically referred to as a 'white cane', is a navigational aid, used by The visually impaired, to aid navigation and to identify obsJacles in the path of the person, as they are walking. It also serves as a means of identifying a visually impamrcd person.

For a visually impaired person attending a talk, for example lessons/lectures at school/university, it is generally important for the person to use an audic recorder to record the talk, as they may be unable to record the talk in any other way (e.g. by making written or typed notes). This requires the person to carry an audio recorder with them, in addition to having to carry the cane, which can present various problems.

For example, having to carry an audio recorder and a white cane can be cumbersome, in particular if the person has to carry other educational materials (e.g. to school/university) and can act as a discouragement to carry the audio recorder. Furthermore, whilst it is unlikely for a visually impaired person to forget their white cane, they migh:, sometimes forget their audio recorder and in such cases lose most of the presented information (e.g. lesson/lecture) if there are no alternative audio recording devices provided. -2 -

The present invention seeks to address or mitigate at least some of the above mentioned problems. Alternatively, or additionally, the present invention seeks to provide an improved cane for use as navigational aid for a visually impaired person.

Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a cane for use as a navigational aid for a visually impaired person, wherein the cane comprises an audio recorder.

As the cane comprises the audio recorder (i.e. are the audio recorder is part of the cane), this removes the need for a visually impaired person to have to carry a separate audio recorder, in addition to the cane. This reduces the number of different items a person has to carry and also prevents the parson forgctting to carry thc audio rccordcr, thcrcby avoiding not being able to record presented information.

In embodiments of the invention, the cane is for contacting obstacles to identify the obstacles to a person holding the cane.

Optionally the cane comprises a handle and an elongate cane body attached, at one end, to the handle. Optionally the cane body is for contacting obstacles (e.g. with a tip of the cane body) to identify the obstacles to a person holding the handle of the cane. Optionally the cane body extends, from a first end attached to the handle, to a second end, along a longitudinal axis, wherein the longitudinal axis is substantially straight.

Optionally the cane body is configurable between an unfolded configuration, for use, in which the cane body extends in a length-wise direction along a longitudinal axis, and a folded configuration in which the cane body is folded such that the length of the cane body is shorter than when the cane body is in the unfolded configuration. -3 -

Optionally the cane body comprises a plurality of lengthwise sections, wherein pairs of adjacent length-wise sections have adjacent ends that are selectively connectable and disconnectable, such that the cane is movable between the unfolded configuration and the folded configuration, in which the length-wise sections are folded relative to each other.

Optionally the audio recorder is provided at least partially in and/or at least partially on at least one of: a) the handle; b) the cane body.

of: Optionally the audio recorder is provided in at least one a) the handle; b) the cane body.

Optionally the audio recorder is provided at least partially in the handle. Optionally the audio recorder is provided in the handle. Optionally the handle comprises the audio recorder. The audio recorder may form part of the handle.

In embodiments of the invention the audio recorder comprises at least one microphone. Optionally the at least one microphone is connected to a memory such that sound received by the microphone is stored in the memory as a sound signal.

It will be appreciated that the, or each, microphone 30 comprises a transducer configured to convert sound waves into an electric sound signal. Optionally the transducer is connected to a memory such that sound received by the microphone is turned -4 -into a corresponding electric sound signal, that is stored in the memory. Optionally the transducer is connected to a memory via an analogue to digital converter.

Optionally the audio recorder is for recording external 5 sounds.

Optionally the audio recorder is for recording speech.

Optionally the audio recorder is configured to record audio to a removable memory. The removable member may be a memory 10 storage device. The removable memory may be a memory card.

Optionally the audio recorder comprises first and second microphones configured to receive audio waves from first and second regions respectively.

Optionally the cane comprises an audio player configured to play audio recorded by the audio recorder.

In embodiments of the invention the audio player comprises at least one audio speaker. Optionally the at least one audio speaker is connected to the memory such that the sound signal stored in the memory is converted into a sound wave by the speaker, so as to reproduce the sound recorded by the microphone(s).

It will be appreciated that the, or each, speaker comprises a transducer configured to convert electrical signals into sound waves. Optionally the transducer is connected to the memory such that the sound signal stored in the memory is converted into a sound wave by the speaker, so as to reproduce the sound recorded by the microphone(s). Optionally the transducer is connected to the memory via a digital to analogue converter. -5 -

Optionally the cane comprises a handle, for holding the cane when using the cane as a navigational aid, and wherein a user operable switch is provided on the handle, for operation by a hand of a user that is holding the handle, to switch the audio recorder on and off.

Optionally the cane comprises a vibration alert generator, 10 connected to the audio recorder, configured to provide an alert vibration whilst the audio recorder is recording audio.

Optionally the alert vibration is a periodic vibration.

Optionally the cane comprises an object detection system comprising: a wave transmitting system, configured to transmit an object detection wave to an object detection region; a wave receiving system, configured to receive the object detection wave, when it has been reflected off an object in the object detection region, and to generate an alert signal in dependence on the received object detection wave; and an alert generating system, configured to generate an alert in dependence on the alert signal, to alert a user of the cane to the presence of the object in the object detection region.

The object detection system may advantageously prevent a user colliding with an object, for example an obstacle in their path. -6 -

In embodiments of the invention, the wave receiving system is configured to generate the alert signal when it receives the object detection wave.

In embodiments of the invention the alert generating system is operatively connected to the wave receiving system such that the alert signal passes to the alert generating system. The operative connection may be a wired or wireless connection. Optionally the alert generating system is configured to generate an alert when it receives the alert signal, to alert a user of the cane to the presence of the object in the object detection region.

The wave transmitting system may comprise a wave transmitter configured to transmit the object detection wave. The wave receiving system may comprise a wave receiver configured to receive the object detection wave, when it has been reflected off an object in the object detection region, and to generate the alert signal in dependence on the received object detection wave.

Optionally: the wave transmitting system is configured to transmit a first object detection wave to a first object detection region and to transmit a second object detection wave to a second object detection region; the wave receiving system is configured to receive the first object detection wave, when the first objection detection wave has been reflected off an object in the first object detection region, and to generate a first alert signal in dependence on the received first object detection wave, and to receive the second object detection wave, when the second objection detection wave has been reflected off an object in the second object detection region, and to generate a second alert signal in dependence on the received second object detection wave; and wherein _ 7 _ the alert generating system is configured to generate at least one alert in dependence on the first and/or second alert signal, to alert the user to the presence of the respective detected object in the first and/or second object detection region respectively.

Optionally: the wave transmitting system comprises a first wave transmitter configured to transmit the first object detection wave and a second wave transmitter configured to transmit the second object detection wave; the wave receiving system comprises a first wave receiver configured to receive the first object detection wave, when it has been reflected off an object in the first object detection region, and to generate a first alert signal in dependence on the received first object detection wave and a second wave receiver configured to receive the second object detection wave, when it has been reflected off an object in the second object detection region, and to generate a second alert signal in dependence on the received second object detection wave; and wherein the alert generating system is configured to generate at least one alert in dependence on the first and/or second alert signal, to alert the user to the presence of the respective detected object in the first and/or second object detection region respectively.

Optionally the alert generating system is configured to generate a first alert in dependence on the first alert signal, to alert the user to the presence of The detected object in the first object detection region.

Optionally the alert generating system is configured to generate a second alert in dependence on the second alert signal, to alert the user to the presence of The detected object in the second object detection region. -8 -

Optionally the alert generating system is configured to generate an alert in dependence on the first and second alert signals to alert the user to the presence of a detected object in the first and second object detection regions.

Optionally the alert generating system comprises: a first alert generator configured to receive the first alert signal from the first wave receiver and to generate an alert in dependence on the received first alert signal; and a second alert generator configured to receive the second alert signal from the second wave receiver and to generate an alert in dependence on the received second alert signal.

Optionally the first and second object detection regions are upper and lower object detection regions respectively. It will be appreciated that references to the upper and lower object detection regions are to the object detection regions being upper and lower relative to each other.

The first object detection region may be at a height range above the knee region of user and towards the head region of the user. The second object detection region may be at a height range below the knee region of user.

Optionally the first and second alert generators are positioned in upper and lower locations, on the cane, respectively. It will be appreciated that references to the upper and lower locations are to the locations being upper and lower relative to each other. This may provide alerts that can intuitively be understood by the user as to whether there is a detected object in the upper and/or lower object detection regions.

Optionally the alert generating system is configured to generate said at least one alert when a respective object is detected in both the first and second object detection regions. -9 -

Optionally the alert is an audible sound and/or a vibration.

Optionally the, or each, object detection wave is an ultrasonic wave.

In this respect, optionally the wave transmitting system is configured to transmit an ultrasonic object de:_ection wave and the wave receiving system is configured to receive the ultrasonic object detection wave, when it has been reflected off an object in the object detection region, and to generate an alert signal in dependence on the received ultrasonic object detection wave.

The ultrasonic wave may be a sound wave having a frequency greater than or equal to 20 kHz.

In this respect, the wave transmitter may comprise a transducer. The wave transmitter may comprise an ultrasonic transducer. The wave transmitter may comprise an ultrasonic wave transmitter.

The wave receiver may comprise a transducer. The wave receiver may comprise an ultrasonic transducer. The wave receiver may comprise an ultrasonic wave receiver. The wave receiver may comprise a wave sensor. The wave receiver may comprise an ultrasonic wave sensor.

The wave transmitter and the wave receiver may be formed by the same component. In this respect, the wave transmitting system may comprise a wave transceiver that forms said wave transmitter and said wave receiver.

The first wave transmitter may comprise a transducer. The first wave transmitter may comprise an ultrasonic transducer.

The first wave transmitter may comprise an ultrasonic wave transmitter.

The first wave receiver may comprise a transducer. The first wave receiver may comprise an ultrasonic transducer. The first wave receiver may comprise an ultrasonic wave receiver. The -10 -first wave receiver may comprise a wave sensor. The first wave receiver may comprise an ultrasonic wave sensor.

The first wave transmitter and the first wave receiver may be formed by the same component. In this respect, the wave transmitting system may comprise a first wave transceiver that forms said first wave transmitter and said first wave receiver.

The second wave transmitter may comprise a transducer. The second wave transmitter may comprise an ultrasonic transducer. The second wave transmitter may comprise an ultrasonic wave transmitter.

The second wave receiver may comprise a transducer. The second wave receiver may comprise an ultrasonic transducer. The second wave receiver may comprise an ultrasonic wave receiver. The second wave receiver may comprise a wave sensor. The second wave receiver may comprise an ultrasonic wave sensor.

The second wave transmitter and the second wave receiver may be formed by the same component. In this respect, the wave transmitting system may comprise a second wave transceiver that forms said second wave transmitter and said second wave receiver.

Optionally the cane comprises a plurality of length-wise sections, wherein at least one pair of adjacent length-wise sections have adjacent ends that are selectively connectable and disconnectable, such that the cane is movable between an unfolded configuration, for use, in which the cane extends along a longitudinal axis, and a folded configuration, for storage, in which the length-wise sections are folded relative to each other; and wherein the plurality of length-wise sections are configured such that the adjacent ends of the lengthwise sections are only connectable in a relative orientation, about the longitudinal axis of the cane, such that the objection detection system is positioned for use.

Optionally the at least one pair is a plurality of pairs.

Optionally, in respect of said pair of adjacent ends, a first of the adjacent ends is provided with a first formation and a second of the adjacent ends is provided with a second formation, wherein the first and second formations only permit connection of the adjacent ends in said relative orientation of the adjacent ends, when the first and second formations are engaged with each other.

Optionally one of the first and second formations is a male member and the other is a female member, for receipt of the male member.

Optionally the plurality of length-wise sections are configured such that the adjacent ends of the lengthwise sections are only connectable in a relative orientation in which: * the first and second wave transmitters are in substantially corresponding circumferential positions, about the longitudinal axis of the cane; and/or * the first and second wave receivers are in substantially corresponding circumferential positions, about the longitudinal axis of the cane.

Optionally the plurality of length-wise sections are configured such that the adjacent ends of the lengthwise sections are only connectable in a relative orientation in which: * the first and second wave transmitters are oriented such that the first and second object detection waves have directions of propagation that are in substantially the same radial plane, relative to the longitudinal axis of the cane; and/or * the first and second wave receivers are oriented such that they can respectively receive reflected first and second object detection waves that have directions of -12 -propagation that are in substantially the same radial plane, relative to the longitudinal axis of the cane.

Optionally the plurality of length-wise sections comprises three length-wise sections. Optionally the cane comprises a handle and a cane body attached to the handle. Optionally the plurality of length-wise sections comprises the handle. Optionally the plurality of length-wise sections comprises at least one length-wise section of the cane body. Optionally the plurality of length-wise sections comprises a plurality of length-wise sections of the cane body. Optionally the plurality of length-wise sections comprises three length-wise sections of the cane body.

Optionally the plurality of length-wise sections are connected by an internal connecting member, such that the length-wise sections remain connected when the cane is in the unfolded configuration.

Optionally the object detection system is configured to calculate the distance to an object detected in the respective object detection region. This calculation may be based on the time between when the wave is transmitted, by the wave transmission system, and when The reflected wave is received by the wave receiving system, as well as the wave speed.

In this respect, the distance may be calculated as: 1 x n Where: D = Distance S -Wave Speed T = Time -13 -Optionally an object is deemed to be detected in the respective detection region, by the object detection system, when the object is detected within a certain distance range from the cane 1, for example, 0 to 3 metres.

Optionally the cane comprises a battery connector connected to the audio recorder and/or object detection system, for connecting a battery to the audio recorder and/or object detection system respectively.

Optionally the battery connector is configured such that a battery can be selectively connected to and disconnected from the battery connector.

Optionally the cane comprises a charging connector, for connecting the battery to an electrical supply to charge the battery.

Optionally the cane comprises a handle and a cane body that 20 extends from a first end, attached to the handle, to a second end, wherein the second end of the cane body is provided with an electrical insulator.

According to a second aspect of the invention there is 25 provided a kit of parts of a cane for use as navigational aid for a visually impaired person, wherein the kit of parts comprises: a cane for use as navigational aid for a visually impaired person; and an audio recorder; -14 -wherein the cane comprises an audio recorder receiving means for receiving the audio recorder.

The audio recorder receiving means may be provided in the handle.

Optionally the cane is white. Optionally the cane body is white.

The features of any of the above aspects of the invention may be combined with one or more features of any of the other aspects of the invention, in any combination.

Other preferred and advainageous features of the invention

will be apparent from the following description.

Description of the Drawings

A specific embodiment of the invention will now be described 20 with reference to the description and drawings.

Figure 1 shows a perspective view, from the side, of a cane according to a first embodiment of the invention, where the cane is in an unfolded configuration; Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an audio recorder and 25 object detection system of the cane shown in Figure 1; Figure 3 is a schematic circuit diagram of an audio recorder and object detection system of the cane shown in Figure 1; Figure 4 is a close up perspective view of an upper part of 30 a cane according to a second embodiment of the invention; Figure 5 is a close up perspective view of a handle and first section of a cane body of the second embodiment of the -15 -cane, shown in Figures 4 (second and third sections of the cane body are omitted for illustrative purposes), where the cane is in between an unfolded configuration and a folded configuration; Figure 6 is a schematic side view of the cane according to 5 the first and second embodiments of the invention, where the cane is in a folded configuration, and Figure 7 is a flow chart showing the method of operation of the audio recorder and object detection system of the second embodiment of the cane, shown in Figures 4 and S.

Detailed Description

Referring to Figure 1 there is shown a first embodiment of a cane 1 for use as a navigational aid for a visually impaired parson, to idcntify obstacics in thc path of thc person, as thc person is walking. The cane 1 comprises a handle 2 and a elongate cane body 3 that is attached, at one end, to a second end of the handle 2.

The cane body 3 is for contacting obstacles, for example with a tip 4 of the cane body 3, to identify the obstacles to a person holding the handle 2 of the cane 1. The cane body 3 is white in colour, so that the cane 1 is readily identifiable as a cane for use by a visually impaired person to identify obstacles.

The handle 2 extends lengthwise from a first end (which, in typical use, is the upper end of the handle 2) to a second end (which, in typical use, is the lower end of the handle 2). A bore 120 (shown in the embodiment shown in Figure 5, but not visible in Figure 1), of circular cross-sectional shape, is provided in the second end of The handle 2.

-16 -The cane 1 is movable between an unfolded configuration (shown in Figure 1) and a folded configuration (shown in Figure 6).

When in the unfolded configuration, the cane 1 extends along a longitudinal axis X from a first end, at the first end of the handle 2, to a second end, at an end of the cane body 3 distal the handle 2, that is provided with an electrically insulating tip 4.

In this respect, the cane body 3 comprises first, second and third lengthwise sections 3a, 3b, 3c. Each section 3a, 3b, 3c is an elongate hollow cylinder that extends lengthwise from a first end to a second end. The handle 2 and the first, second and third lengthwise sections 3a, 3b, 3c of the cane body 3 form length-wise sections of the cane 1. Adjacent ends, of adjacent pairs of thc length-wise sections 2, 3a, 3b, 3c of the cane 1 are selectively connectable and disconnectable by receiving a narrower upper (first) end of The lower of the adjacent lengthwise sections in a wider lower (second) end of the upper of the adjacent length-wise sections, to move the cane 1 between unfolded and folded configurations respectively.

In this respect, with reference to Figure 5, which shows a second embodiment of the cane 101, but which also applies in relation to the first embodiment of the cane 1 (but is not visible in Figure 1), an end portion of the first section 3a, located at the first end of the first section 3a, is narrower, i.e. of smaller diameter, than the portion of the first section 3a that extends from the end portion to the second end of the first section 3a. In this respect, the end portion is of smaller diameter than the second end of the handle 2 such that it is received in the bore 120 in the second end of the handle 2, when the cane body 3 is in its unfolded configuration.

-17 -The end portion of the first section 3a, located at the first end of the first section 3a, has a V-shaped groove 123 that extends inwardly in the radial direction (unless otherwise stated, references to 'radial' and 'circumferential' directions are relative to the longitudinal axis X of the cane 1).

The second end of the handle 2 is provided with a complimentary shaped V-shaped protrusion 124, provided on a radially inner surface of the handle 2, at the second end of the handle 2, extending into the bore 120.

The protrusion 124 is only receivable in the groove 123 in one specific orientation of the first section 103a, 3a relative to the handle 102, 2, about the longitudinal axis X of the cane 101, 1.

Similarly, an end portion of the second section 3b, located at thc first cnd of thc sccond scction 3b, is narrowcr, i.c. of smaller diameter, than the section of the second section 3b that extends from the end portion to the second end of the second section 3b. In this respect, the end portion is of smaller diameter than the second end of the first section 3a such that it is received in the second end of the first section 3a, when the cane body 3 is in its unfolded configuration. Furthermore, the end portion has a V-shaped groove (not shown) that receives a complimentary V-shaped protrusion (not shown) provided on a radially inner surface of the first section 3a, at the second end of the first section 3a. The protrusion is only receivable in the groove in one specific orientation of the second section 103b, 3b relative to the first section 103a, 3a, about the longitudinal axis X of the cane 101, 1.

Similarly, an end portion of the third section 3c, at the first end of the third section 3c, is narrower, i.e. of smaller diameter, than the section of the third section 3c that extends from the end portion to the second end of the third section 3c.

-18 -In this respect, the end porticn is of smaller diameter than the second end of the second section 3b such that it is received in the second end of the second section 3b, when the cane body 3 is in its unfolded configuration. Furthermore, the end portion has 5 a V-shaped groove (not shown) that receives a complimentary V-shaped protrusion (not shown) provided on a radially inner surface of the second section 3b, at the second end of the second section 3b. The protrusion is only receivable in the groove in one specific orientation of the third section 103c (3c) relative 10 to the second section 103b (3b), about the longitudinal axis X of the cane 101 (1).

The arrangement of the V-shaped grooves and protrusions, on the handle 2 and sections 3a, 2b, 3c of the cane body 3 are such that the adjacent ends of the lengthwise sections 2, 3a, 3b, 3c arc only conncctablc, in a relative oricntation, about thc longitudinal axis X of the cane 1, such that an objection detection system of the cane 1 (see below) is for use (described in further detail below).

In the unfolded configuration, the handle 2 and length-wise sections 3a, 3b, 3c of the cane 2 are connected end to end, with the first end of the first section 3a received in the second end of the handle, the first end of the second section 3b received in the second end of the first section 3a and the first end of the third section 3c received in the second end of the second section 3b.

In this respect, in the unfolded configuration, in respect of each pair of connecting ends, the respective v-shaped protrusion of one of the ends is received in the v-shaped groove of the other of the connecting ends.

When the cane body 3 is in the unfolded configuration, the first section 3a is co-axial with the handle 2, the second section 3b is co-axial with the first section 3a and the third -19 -section 3c is co-axial with the second section 3b. In this respect, the cane body 3 extends along a longitudinal axis Xc that is substantially straight (and co-axial with the longitudinal axis of the cane 1).

In order to move the cane 1 from the unfolded configuration to the folded configuration, the first end of the first section 3a is disconnected from the second end of the handle 2, by pulling said ends apart, with the respective v-shaped protrusion sliding out of the respective v-shaped groove. The first section 3a is then folded against the handle 2. The first end of the second section 3b is disconnected from the second end of the first section 3a, by pulling said ends apart, with the respective v-shaped protrusion sliding out of the respective v-shaped groove. The second section 3b is then folded against the first section Sc. The first and of thc third section Sc is disconnected from the second end of the second section 3b, by pulling said ends apart, with the respective v-shaped protrusion sliding out of the respective v-shaped groove. The third section 3c is then folded against the second section 3b.

Accordingly, in the folded configuration, the length of the cane 1 is reduced (to approximately the length of one of the handle 2 and sections 3a, 3b, Sc) thereby providing for a more compact arrangement for storage (e.g. in a bag).

An Insulator tip 4 is provided at the second end of the third section Sc. The Insulator tip 3 is made of an electrically insulating material, so as to prevent a person holding the cane 1 from having an electric shock if they touch a live source of electricity with the tip 3. In the currently described embodiment, the insulator tip 4 is made of rubber. However, it will be appreciated that any suitable electrically insulating material may be used (e.g. wood).

-20 -An elastic cord 121 (shown in Figure 5, but not visible in Figure 1) is attached, at a first end, to the first end of the handle 2 and extends, along the interior of the handle 2 and lengthwise sections 3a, 3b, 3c, to a second end that is attached to a second end of the third section 3c. The elastic cord 121 allows for the adjacent ends of the lengthwise sections 2, 3a, 3b, 3c of the cane 1 to be disconnected from each other, in the folded configuration, whilst still retaining the lengthwise sections of the cane 2, 3a, 3b, 3c together.

In order to unfold the cane 1 (i.e. to move the cane 1 from the folded configuration to the unfolded configuration), the reverse process is followed. In this respect, the first section 3a is unfolded from the handle 2, and the first end of the first section 3a is inserted into the second end of the handle 2, with the respective V-shaped protrusion received in the respective V-shaped groove. In this position, the first section 3a is substantially co-axial with the handle 2.

The second section 3b is unfolded form the first section 3a and the first end of the second section 3b is inserted into the 20 second end of the first section 3a, with the respective V-shaped protrusion received in the respective V-shaped groove.

The third section 3c is unfolded form the second section 3b and the first end of the third section 3c is inserted into the second end of the second section 3b, with the respective V25 shaped protrusion received in the respective V-shaped groove.

Accordingly, when the cane body 3 is in the unfolded configuration, the first section 3a is co-axial with the handle 2, the second section 3b is cc-axial with the first section 3a and the third section Sc is co-axial with the second section 3b.

The cane 1 further comprises an audio recorder (5, 6, 7), provided in the handle 2 of the cane 1. In this respect, the audio recorder is mounted in the handle, in an audio recorder -21 -receiving mount in the handle 2. The audio recorder (5, 6, 7) is configured to record sound, i.e. sound audible to humans. In the currently described embodiment the audio recorder is configured to record sound waves in the frequency range 20Hz to 201.6Hz.

The audio recorder comprises an audio microphone 5, in the form of an electret condenser microphone. It will be appreciated that any suitable type of microphone may be used. The microphone 5 faces upwardly and outwardly, i.e. to record audio from a region Al that extends generally in a cone having a longitudinal axis Al that is inclined slightly towards the first end of the handle, relative to the radial direction (i.e. relative to a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X of the cane 1). The audio recorder is for recording speech, for example school/university lessons/lectures.

Thc audio rccordcr (5, 6, 7) furthcr compriscs a mcmory storage device 6, in the form of a memory card 6. In the currently described embodiment the memory card 6 is a non-volatile flash memory card, in the form of a SD (secure digital) card 6. However, it will be appreciated that any type of memory may be used.

The audio microphone 5 is connected to the memory storage device 6, via a microcontroller 7 such that, when the audio recorder (5, 6, 7) is in use, the sound received by the microphone 5 is turned into a corresponding electric signal by the transducer of the microphone, that is then converted to a digital signal, via an analogue to digital convertor (that is part of the microcontroller 7), which is recorded on the memory card 6.

The audio recorder (5, 6) has a memory card slot 8, that the memory card 6 is insecable into, to connect to the microphone 5, via the microcontroller 7 (as described above), for said audio recordal. The memory card 6 is removable from the -22 -memory card slot 8, for example to transfer the audio signal recorded on the memory card to an audio playback device (e.g. a computer with speakers).

As the audio recorder (5, 6, 7) is part of the cane 1, this removes the need for a visually impaired person to have to carry a separate audio recorder, in addition to the cane 1. This reduces the number of different items a person has to carry and also prevents the person forgetting to carry the audio recorder, thereby avoiding not being able to record presented information.

The cane 1 also comprises an object detection system configured to detect whether there is an object in a first object detection region (R1) and whether there is an object in a second object detection region (R2) and to alert the user to the presence of an object detected in the first and/or second object dotoction rogion (R1, R2).

The object detection system comprises a wave transmitting system 10 comprising a first ultrasonic transducer 10a, configured to transmit a first object detection wave, in the form of an ultrasonic wave, tc a first object detection region (R1). The first transducer 10a faces outwardly, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X of the cane body 3. The first detection region (R1) is intended to be at a height range above the knee region of user and towards the head region of the user.

The wave transmitting syscem 10 further comprises a second ultrasonic transducer 10b, configured to transmit a second object detection wave, in the form of an ultrasonic wave, to a second object detection region (R2). The second transducer 10b faces outwardly, at an angle of 450 to the longitudinal axis X of the cane body 3. The second detection region (R2) is intended to be at a height range below the knee region of user.

The first and second ultrasonic transducers 10a, 10b are also ultrasonic receivers for receiving ultrasonic waves -23 -reflected off an object. In this respect, the first and second ultrasonic transducers 10a, 10b are ultrasonic transceivers. The first ultrasonic transducer 10a is configured to receive the first ultrasonic objection detection wave, when it 5 has been reflected off an object in the first object detection region (R1). The second ultrasonic transducer 10b is configured to receive the second ultrasonic object detection wave, when the second objection detection wave has been reflected off an object in the second object detection region (R2). In this respect, the 10 first and second ultrasonic transducers 10a, 10b also form part of a wave receiving system, configured to receive each object detection wave, when reflected off an object in the respective object detection region, and to generate an alert signal in dependence on the received object detection wave(s).

Thc second transducer 10b is operatively connected to thc controller 7 by a cable 125 (shown in Figure 6, but not shown in Figure 1) that runs along the inside of the sections 3a, 3b, 3c, adjacent to the elastic cord 121.

The first and second transducers 10a, 10b are waterproof.

The object detection system further comprises an alert generating system. The alert generating system comprises first and second vibration surfaces 12a, 12b, which are positioned on the handle 2, with the first vibration surface 12a position more towards the first end of the handle 2 than the second vibration surface 12b, i.e. higher up than the second vibration surface (when the cane 1 is being held in a typical in-use orientation). The first and second vibrations surfaces 12a, 12b are configured to be actuated by first and second vibration coils ha, llb respectively. The first and second vibration coils 11a, lib are connected to the microcontroller 7 and are activated and deactivated by the microcontroller 7, in dependence on alert signals generated by the first and second transducers 10a, 10h.

-24 -In this respect, when the first transducer 10a receives the first objection detection wave, when it has been reflected off an object in the first object detection region (R1), the first transducer 10a generates an alert signal. The alert signal passes to the microcontroller 7, which activates the first vibrating coil 11a, to vibrate the first vibration surface 12a. This alerts the user to the presence of an object (e.g. an obstacle) in the first object detection region (R1).

When the second transducer 10b receives the second objection detection wave, when it has been reflected off an object in the second object detection region (R2), the second transducer 10b generates an alert signal. The alert signal passes to the microcontroller 7, which activates the second vibrating coil 11b, to vibrate the second vibration surface 12b. This alerts thc uscr to thc presence of an object (c.g. an obstacle) in the second object detection region (R2).

As the first and second vibration surfaces 12a, 12b are upper and lower vibration surfaces respectively (relative to each other) and the first and second object detection regions 20 (R1, R2) are upper and lower object detection regions respectively (relative to each other), the vibration of the upper vibration surface 12a waves to the user that there is an object in the upper object detection region (R1) and the vibration of the lower vibration surface 12b waves to the user that there is 25 an object in the lower object detection region (R2), which can be intuitively understood by the user.

The alert generating system further comprises a buzzer 13 that is connected to the microcontroller 7 and activated and deactivated by the microcontroller 7, in dependence on the alert signals generated by the first and second transducers 10a, 10b. In this respect, the buzzer is sounded when both the first transducer 10a receives the first objection detection wave, when -25 -It has been reflected off an object in the first object detection region (R1) and the second transducer 10b receives the second objection detection wave, when it has been reflected off an object in the second object detection region (R2). This alerts a user to the presence of an object in both the first and second detection regions (R1, R2), i.e. to the presence of a large object (e.g. obstacle).

As stated above, due to the arrangement of the V-shaped grooves 123 and protrusions 124, of the length-wise sections 2, 3a, 3b, 3c of the cane 1, adjacent ends of the length-wise sections 2, 3a, 3b, 3c of the cane 1 are only connectable in one specific relative rotational crientation (i.e. the orientation about the longitudinal axis X of one section relative to an adjacent section), about the longitudinal axis X of the cane 1.

This specific relative orientation is such that the first and second transceivers 10a, 10b are in substantially corresponding circumferential positions, about the longitudinal axis X of the cane 1. This advantageously positions the first and second transceivers 10a, 10b in their correctly positions for use, i.e. they are both facing forwards. Accordingly, this prevents a user from connecting the length-wise sections 2, 3a, 3b, 3c in Incorrect relative orientations, where the first and second wave transmitters are located at different circumferential positions, i.e. facing in different directions.

It will be appreciated that any type of male and female members may be used to provide this functionality and that the invention is not limited to the use of V-shaped grooves and protrusions. It will also be appreciated that the male member may be one either of the adjacent length-wise sections, with the female member on the other.

The object detection system is also configured to calculate the distance to an object detected in the respective object -26 -detection region. This calculanion is based on the time between when the wave is transmitted, by the wave transmission system, and when the reflected wave is received by the wave receiving system, as well as the wave speed.

In this respect, the distance is calculated as: Where: D = Distance S -Speed T = Time An object is deemed to be detected in the respective detection region, by the object detection system, when the object is detected within a certain distance range from the cane 1, for 20 example, 0 to 3 metres.

The object detection system may advantageously prevent a visually impaired user colliding with an object, for example an obstacle in their path as they are walking.

The cane 1 further comprises a battery connector 14, for electrically connecting a rechargeable battery 15 to the first and second transducers 10a, 10b, microcontroller 7, microphone 5, vibrating coils 11a, 11b, buzzer 13 and/or object detection system.

The battery connector 14 is configured such that a battery 30 15 can be selectively connected to and disconnected from the battery connector 14. In the currently described embodiment the battery 15 is a rechargeable battery.

-27 -The cane 1 also comprises a charging port 17, for connecting the battery 15 to an electrical supply (e.g. a mains electrical supply)to charge the battery 15.

A first user operable switch 16a is connected between the 5 battery connector 14 and the audio recorder (5, 6, 7) to switch the audio recorder (5, 6, 7) on and off.

A second user operable switch 16b is connected between the battery connector 14 and the object detection system to switch the object detection system on and off.

The first and second switches 16a, 16b are both located on the handle 2. In this respect, the audio recorder and object detection system can be turned on and off by a user, whilst they are walking with the cane 1.

When the audio recorder is recording audio, the micro-controller 7 sends a signal to ono or both of the vibration coils 11a, 11b, to periodically vibrate one or both of the vibrations surfaces 12a, 12b, to provide a signal to the user that the audio recorder is recording audio.

Referring to Figures 4 and 5, there is shown a cane 101 according to a second embodiment of the invention. The cane 101 of the second embodiment has corresponding features to the cane 1 of the first embodiment, expect for the features described in relation to the second embodiment. Corresponding features are given corresponding reference numerals, but incremented by 100.

In the second embodiment, the audio recorder comprises a first microphone 105a, positioned at the first end of the handle 102. The first microphone 105a faces upwardly and outwardly, i.e. to record audio from a region Al that extends in a cone having a longitudinal axis A1m,s that is inclined slightly towards the first end of the handle, relative to the radial direction (i.e. relative to a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X of the cane 1).

-28 -The audio recorder also comprises a second microphone 105b, positioned in the lower half of the handle, i.e. the half of the handle 2 extending to/from the second end of the handle 2. The second microphone 105b faces outwardly, i.e. to record audio from a region A2 that extends in a cone having a longitudinal axis A2,,, that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X of the cane 1.

The use of first and second microphones 105a, 105b, configured to receive audio waves from first and second regions respectively, enables audio sound to be recorded from different directions and regions. Accordingly, the audio recorder does not have to be placed so accurately in a specific orientation to record the desired audio.

In the second embodiment, the cane 101 also comprises an audio playor configurcd to play audio rccordcd by the audio recorder. The audio player comprises an audio speaker 113. The audio speaker 113 comprises a transducer configured to convert electrical signals into sound waves. The speaker 113 is connected to the memory card 6 (via a digital to analogue convertor in the controller) such that the sound signal stored in the memory is converted into a sound wave by the speaker 113, so as to reproduce the sound recorded by the microphone(s).

The audio player is connected to a switch 152 such that the audio player is switched on and off by the switch 152.

A general on/off switch 116a is provided on the handle 102, to connect and disconnect the object detection system and audio recorder from the battery.

A switch 150 is switchable between a first position, in which the audio recorder is on and the object detection system 30 is off and a second position, in which the audio recorder is off and the object detection system is on.

-29 -Referring to Figure 7, there is a shown a flow chart showing the method of operation of the audio recorder and object detection system of the second embodiment of the cane, shown in Figures 4 and S. Step 300 is a start step that is initiated when the general switch 116a is on.

Serial initialisation then occurs, at step 301.

A check as to the whether the switch 150 is in the first or second position, i.e. whether the audio recorder is on or the 10 object detection system is on.

If the switch 150 is in the second position then a trigger is sent a step 400 and steps 401a to 404a and 401b to 404b are proceeded with in relation to the first and second transducers 110a and 110b respectively. At step 401a, it is determined whether a reflected first or second object detection wave has been received by the first or second transducer 110a, 110b respectively. If yes, at step 403a, the distance to the object that the wave has been refle=ed off is calculated, based off the time that has elapsed between the transmittal and reflection of the object detection wave (as described above). If no, the method reverts back to step 400.

At step 403a, 403b a check is performed as to whether the determined distance is within a pre-determined range, which in this embodiment is greater than or equal to 5cm and less than or equal to 300cm (i.e. 3 metres). It will be appreciated that different ranges may be used. If yes, then the speaker 13 is activated (step 404a) to emit an alert sound (e.g. to buzz) or a vibration surface is vibrated (step 404b) respectively. The method then proceeds to a stop step 405. If no, the method reverts back to step 400.

If the switch 150 is in the first position (i.e. the audio recorder is on) then a check is made as to whether the memory -30 -card 6 is available. If yes then a recording light is turned on, at a high illumination, at step 304 and a.wav recording file is created at step 305, to contain the audio recording. At step 306, audio is recorded for a pre-determined time. In this embodiment, the pre-determined time is 5 minutes. However, it will be appreciated that alternative periods of time may be used, or that the audio recording may continue until the audio recorder is switched off. At step 307, the recorded audio is saved onto the memory card 6. An end step then occurs, at step 308.

If, at step 303, the result of the check is that the memory card 106 is not available, then the recording light is set to a low illumination to wave this (the terms 'high' and 'low' illumination being relative to each other) and the end step 308 then occurs.

A corresponding method is carried out in relation to the cane 1 of the first embodiment of the invention.

The cane 1, 100 of the above described embodiments, both removes the need for a visually impaired person to have to carry a separate audio recorder, in addition to the cane 1 and can 20 prevent a visually impaired user colliding with an object.

It will be appreciated that numerous modifications to the above described design may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

For example, the audio recorder may be located at least 25 partially in and/or on the handle 2, 102 and/or the cane body 3, 103.

The object detection system may be configured to only detect an object in a single detection region (e.g. the first or second detection region). In this case, the object detection system may only comprise one of said transducers 10a, 10b. In this case, only one of the vibrating coils ha, llb and surfaces 12a, 12b may be used.

Furthermore, the object detection system may be omitted if only an audio recording functionality is required.

It will be appreciated that any type and arrangement of the described micro-controller 7, microphone 5, memory storage 6, 5 first and second transducers 10a, 10b, vibrating coils and surfaces ha, 11b, 12a, 12b may be used.

Furthermore, any type of alert generation may be used and is not to be limited to audible waves (e.g. the sound from a buzzer) or vibrations.

In the described embodiment, the first and second transducers 10a, 10b both transmit and receive the respective reflected object detection wave. Alternatively, one or both of the transducers 10a, 10b may only transmit or receive an object detection wave, with another transducer used to receive or transmit the objection detection wave respectively.

Any suitable type of object detection wave, that can reflect off an object in an object detection region may be used, and is not limited to ultrasonic waves, or only sound waves. For example, electromagnetic waves could be used.

Where in the foregoing description, integers or elements are mentioned which have known, obvious or foreseeable equivalents, then such equivalents are herein incorporated as if individually set forth. Reference should be made to the claims for determining the true scope of the present invention, which should be construed so as to encompass any such equivalents. It will also be appreciated by the reader that integers or features of the invention that are described as preferable, advantageous, convenient or the like are optional and do not limit the scope of the independent claims.

Claims

-32 -Claims 1.A cane for use as a navigational aid for a visually impaired person, wherein the cane comprises an audio recorder.
2.A cane according to claim 1 wherein the audio recorder is configured to record audio to a removable memory.
3.A cane according to either of claims 1 or 2 wherein the audio recorder comprises first and second microphones configured to receive audio waves from first and second regions respectively.
4.A cane according to any preceding claim wherein the cane comprises an audio player configured to play audio recorded by the audio recorder.
5. A cane according to any preceding claim wherein the cane comprises a handle, for holding the cane when using the cane as a navigational aid, and wherein a user operable switch is provided on the handle, for operation by a hand of a user that is holding the handle, to switch the audio recorder on and off.
6.A cane according to any preceding claim wherein the cane comprises a vibration alert generator configured to provide an alert vibration whilst the audio recorder is recording audio.
7.A cane according to claim 6 wherein the alert vibration is a periodic vibration.
8.A cane according to any preceding claim wherein the cane comprises an object detection system comprising: a wave transmitting system, configured to transmit an object detection wave to an object detection region; a wave receiving system, configured to receive the object detection wave, when it has been reflected off an object in the object detection region, and to generate an -33 -alert signal in dependence on the received object detection wave; and an alert generating system, configured to generate an alert in dependence on the alert signal, to alert a user of the cane to the presence of the object in the object detection region.
9.A cane according to claim 8 wherein: the wave transmitting system is configured to transmit a first object detection wave to a first object detection region and to transmit a second object detection wave to a second object detection region; the wave receiving system is configured to receive the first object detection wave, when the first objection detection wave has been reflected off an object in the first object detection region, and to generate a first alert signal in dependence on the received first object detection wave, and to receive the second object detection wave, when the second objection detection wave has been reflected off an object in the second object detection region, and to generate a second alert signal in dependence on the received second object detection wave; and wherein the alert generating system is configured to generate at least one alert in dependence on the first and/or second alert signal, to alert the user to the presence of the respective detected object in the first and/or second object detection region respectively.
10. A cane according to claim 9 wherein: the wave transmitting system comprises a first wave transmitter configured to transmit the first object detection wave and a second wave transmitter configured to transmit the second object detection wave; the wave receiving system comprises a first wave receiver configured to receive the first object detection -34 -wave, when it has been reflected off an object in the first object detection region, and to generate a first alert signal in dependence on the received first object detection wave and a second wave receiver configured to receive the second object detection wave, when it has been reflected off an object in the second object detection region, and to generate a second alert signal in dependence on the received second object detection wave.
11. A cane according to claim 10 wherein the alert generating system comprises: a first alert generator configured to receive the first alert signal from the first wave receiver and to generate an alert in dependence on the received first alert signal; and a second alert generator configured to receive the second alert signal from the second wave receiver and to generate an alert in dependence on the received second alert signal.
12. A cane according to any of claims 9 to 11 wherein the first and second object detection regions are upper and lower object detection regions respectively.
13. A cane according to claim 12 wherein the first and second alert generators are positioned in upper and lower locations, on the cane, respectively.
14. A cane according to any of claims 9 to 13, wherein the alert generating system is configured to generate said at least one alert when an object is detected in both the first and second object detection regions.
15. A cane according to claim 14, wherein the alert is an audible sound and/or a vibration.
16. A cane according to any of claims 8 to 15 wherein the, or each, object detection wave is an ultrasonic wave.
-35 - 17. A cane according to any of claims 8 to 16 wherein the cane comprises a plurality of length-wise sections, wherein at least one pair of adjacent length-wise sections have adjacent ends that are selectively connectable and disconnectable, such that the cane is movable between an unfolded configuration, for use, in which the cane extends along a longitudinal axis, and a folded configuration, for storage, in which the lengthwise sections are folded relative to each other; and wherein the plurality of length-wise sections are configured such that the adjacent ends of the lengthwise sections are only connectable, in a relative orientation, about the longitudinal axis of the cane, such that the objection detection system is positioned for use when the cane is in the unfolded configuration.
18. A cane according to claim 17, when dependent on claim 10, wherein, the adjacent ends of the lengthwise sections are only connectable in a relative orientation in which: * the first and second wave transmitters are in substantially corresponding circumferential positions, about the longitudinal axis of the cane; and/or * the first and second wave receivers are in substantially corresponding circumferential positions, about the longitudinal axis of the cane.
19. A cane according to any preceding claim wherein the cane comprises a battery connector connected to the audio recorder and/or object detection system, for connecting a battery to the audio recorder and/or object detection system respectively.
20. A cane according to claim 19 wherein the cane comprises a charging connector, for connecting the battery to an electrical supply to charge the battery.
21. A cane according to any preceding claim wherein the cane comprises a handle and a cane body that extends from a first end, attached to the handle, to a second end, wherein the -36 -second end of the cane body is provided with an electrical insulator.
22. A kit of parts of a cane for use as navigational aid for a visually impaired person, wherein the kit of parts comprises: a cane for use as navigational aid for a visually impaired person; and an audio recorder, recorder receiving wherein the cane comprises an audio means for receiving the audio recorder.