Blind Orientation and Mobility Training using Simulated Environment Audio

This project develops a Virtual Reality Audio Simulator to enable the development of orientation and navigation skills for individuals who are blind. The simulator allows young adults undergoing orientation and mobility training to explore a virtual model of a realistic 3-D environment via auditory feedback. To create a fully immersive and interactive environment, the user wears headphones with head-orientation tracking sensors. As the user moves their head, the auditory feedback adjusts in real time. The virtual space offers a fun, yet challenging platform to gain spatial skills and develop cognitive mapping techniques. Virtual reality simulators and audio games offer new tools for those with visual impairments to acquire spatial knowledge. In addition to facilitating learning of basic spatial skills, the virtual simulator allows off-line learning of unfamiliar spaces and the simulation of rehearsal of routes based on maps and building layouts available online.