抄録
In this paper, a new walking-assist system is investigated for visually handicapped. In order to assist perception-ability of the user, the perception-assist using a power-assist robot has been proposed. It automatically modifies the user's motion if the robot detected the possibility of collision between the user and some obstacles in the moving direction of user. However, it is better that environmental information is transmitted in advance. Our new walking-assist system assists user's environment perception using tactile stimulation. Specifically, it provides information of obstacle (such as the location, size and distance from the user) to user's tactile sensation by using mechanical stimulus (vibration and pressure). Hence the characteristics of human tactile sensation are studied to design the walking-assist system.
