UT-Arlington engineers need $300,000 to complete project that benefits the blind

by PegNews wire

Intelligent Eyes is a wearable device that aids blind people in processing their surroundings. Created by researchers at UT-Arlington, UT-San Antonio, and Southwestern Medical Center, the system in its current state of development works but is too big to reasonably be used day-to-day.

Although the National Science Foundation told the research team that its product could have a "substantial impact" improving the quality of life for blind people, it refused a $300,000 grant, doubting that the team could achieve all its aims. The team has continued to make improvements to the device and will apply for the grant once again next year.

The device would only costs wearers about $100, thousands less than other alternatives, which is critical for a population that has 70% unemployment rate.

Posted by Erin