Smart navigation and fitness assistant for people with vision loss
VIS4ION-FiT (Visually Impaired Smart Service System for Spatial Intelligence and Onboard Navigation for Fitness)
A wearable device and Android app that use AI to guide people with blindness or low vision so they can walk more safely and get more exercise.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11054264 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You'll wear a small camera and sensors and use an Android phone app that speaks directions, plays audio alerts, and gives gentle vibrations for guidance. The system processes data locally and on servers with AI to identify paths, obstacles, and landmarks and to deliver real-time navigation for outdoor exercise. The app is customizable to your needs and will track steps, routes, and adherence to the exercise plan. Researchers will test the system with people who are blind or have low vision to see whether it helps increase walking and improves safety.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with blindness or low vision who can walk independently, want to increase outdoor activity, and can use a smartphone and wearable device are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People who cannot walk outdoors, have severe cognitive impairment, or are unable or unwilling to use a smartphone or wearable device are unlikely to benefit from this intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could help people with vision loss increase physical activity, reduce trips and falls, and improve overall health.
How similar studies have performed: Related navigation aids and small pilot programs have shown promise for mobility and activity, but combining wearable AI navigation specifically for fitness is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- 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
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 below.