An Austrian startup has developed smart shoes for the blind and visually impaired. There is no heel in this shoe called ‘Inomec’. However, the shoe detects uneven spaces or obstructions in the front, such as fire hydrants, holes, ups and downs, and warns the user through a pre-selected response.
The first warning message is given via haptic or vibration. This vibration is applied directly to the shoe so that the user can feel the obstruction in front of him. The second warning message is acoustic feedback. It is available via Bluetooth-linked smartphones or bone conduction headphones.
And the electronic device can be easily connected through the metal track inside the shoe.
The front of the shoes also has a water and dust resistant cover. It will provide protection in any weather and adverse environment.
The smart shoe was created by Austrian startup medical device maker Tech-Innovation with the help of the Austrian Graz University of Technology.
Currently Inomec is only suitable for use in iOS. An additional app is used for this purpose, which helps the disabled users to monitor the battery status of the device and use the shoe search function.
The market value of Inomec is estimated at USD 3,800, which is more than Tk 300,000 in Bangladeshi currency. However, the manufacturers have plans to market it at a more affordable price in phases.