Smart Glasses to counter visual impairment and enhance remaining sight
OXSIGHT is an Oxford University spin-out that develops aids to help visually impaired people to live more independent lives. They engaged OPD to incorporate their technology into a wearable device that would be both stylish and comfortable enough for the user to wear for extended periods.
Prism captures live video of the real world which relays to two HD displays that are then projected in front of the user’s usable area of vision. Via augmented reality, Prism can display visual information in a variety of ways to help the user in various scenarios such as enhancing faces, make writing more legible, or highlight approaching objects and obstacles.
An integral part of the device is the occluder - a shroud surrounding the users’ eyes to ensure that no extraneous light enters the headset to enhance the quality of the received image. We employed anthropometric data that captured a range of multiethnic head sizes across genders from fifth to the ninety-fifth percentile adults to ensure the best possible fit and user comfort.
Multiple prototypes were created to ensure that the seal would fit evenly across a range of face types. Feedback from extensive user trials was incorporated into the design to ensure it was optimised for comfort. Prism’s final design features adjustable frame arms with hooks that rest behind the ear for added security and stability.
By applying human factors and ergonomic evaluation throughout the design process, we were able to design a truly adaptable and intuitive product, resulting in an enjoyable user experience.
In addition to the Prism model, we created a second variant called Crystal for those with less severe visual impairment. By removing the occluder, the Crystal provides unrestricted peripheral awareness and the user can activate augmented reality on demand.