University of Nevada‘s Eelke Folmer has built a drone system that guides visually impaired runners around a track, allowing them to run without a sighted guide. A downward-facing camera follows the lines on the track. A second camera focuses on a marker on the runner’s shirt. The quadcopter flies at eye level, 10 feet ahead of a runner, and guides with sound. The drone adjusts its speed to accommodate the runner’s pace.
Professor Folmer’s lab is developing multiple projects aimed at improving the lives of those with limited sight.
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