A smart service system to help visually impaired individuals navigate their environment.
Official title: VIS4ION-Thailand (Visually Impaired Smart Service System for Spatial Intelligence and Onboard Navigation) - Resub - 1
Funded at New York University School of Medicine · NIH-10927410 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new wearable device that helps people who are visually impaired move around safely by giving them real-time information about their surroundings, making it easier for them to avoid obstacles and feel more confident while walking.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $264,010 |
| NIH project number | 5R33EY033689-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10927410 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with visual impairments who face challenges in navigation and mobility.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no visual impairment or those who do not experience mobility challenges may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing an innovative wearable technology designed to assist visually impaired individuals in navigating their surroundings. By utilizing advanced computer vision systems, the project aims to enhance spatial intelligence and provide real-time information about the three-dimensional world. The approach includes creating a smart service system that can help users avoid obstacles and improve their mobility, ultimately aiming to reduce the fear of falling and enhance quality of life. The research will be conducted in Thailand, addressing the unique challenges faced by visually impaired individuals in low- and middle-income countries.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve mobility and independence for visually impaired individuals, enhancing their overall quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using wearable technology to assist visually impaired individuals, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University School of Medicine
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rizzo, John Ross — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Rizzo, John Ross
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.