Audio and Haptic Based Virtual Environments for Orientation and Mobility in People Who are Blind

摘要

This study presents the development of a videogame with two audio and haptic interfaces that allow for the stimulation of orientation and mobility skills in people who are blind through the use of virtual environments. Our idea was to test the hypothesis regarding the use of audio and haptic interfaces together, allowing for the creation of a better mental representation of a virtual environment, compared to that which results from the use of each kind of interface separately. The videogame's icon usability has been evaluated, as well as a posterior cognitive analysis of the skills acquired through its use. The preliminary usability results show that the people correctly describe the textures and shapes used in the software.