SYSTEM FOR DETERMINATION OF HAZARDOUS AREAS FOR THE BLIND PEOPLE USING WAVE-VIBRATION MARKERS - EVALUATION OF VIBRATION PERCEPTION ON THE WRIST

摘要

The study presented in this article is part of a project which aims to develop methods for the determination of dangerous or particularly important places in the city for blind people using wave-vibration markers. The system of training orientation is supported on wave-vibration signals and touch sense. Helpful information are provided through vibration which was applied to the wrist. The aim of the research presented in the paper was to evaluate how annoying, recognizable, easy to learn and memorize these signals are. Tests were carried out on group of blind and partially sighted people. Then also control group of normally sighted people was tested. 14 signals were presented by special bracelet with 3 vibrators. Signals were presented three times in random order. After the presentation of each of the signals examined person has to asses the sensation of stimulus. Perception of signals was evaluated using five-point verbal scale ICBEN. Examined people were given the following question: what number from one to five reflects in the best way how much you are annoyed by vibration. Numeric scale was assigned to the verbal scale as follow: 1-not at all, 2-slightly, 3-moderately, 4-very and 5-extremely. Based on results signals which are the best for system of training spatial orientation were selected.