Seeing with Sound: Creating a Training Module to Use Echolocation for Object Detection

Abstract

This project explored using ultrasonic reflections to effectively identify an object’s size, distance, relative location, and solidity to improve the use of echolocation by the seeing impaired to “see” their surroundings. An interactive test program was created to train and assess the subjects’ ability to detect differences within a variable. Two main factors, object type and position, had significant (p<0.001) effects on correct identification. Specifically, solid objects or those located in front of the subject were more correctly identified. The interactions of object/position (p=0.005) and distance/position (p=0.004) were also significant. Solid object located in front of the subject appeared to be easier to identify and a correct response for the location depended on the distance. The primary results provided evidence that an ultrasonic echolocation device may be a viable tool to aid the seeing impaired. However, more studies are needed to make more conclusive statements on the findings.