Halo

What it does

Halo is a wristband for the visually impaired that gives directional feedback using vibration and a voice GPS app. It enables hands-free, discreet navigation in crowded, noisy, or unfamiliar environments.

Your inspiration

Observing how blind people battled in noisy and crowded settings where audio assistants didn't work and using canes were difficult had inspired me. Many were less independent because they needed human assistance. I discovered that vibrations could be used to silently convey navigation after researching their use in immersive technology. I had an idea for a compact, non-visual, non-audio guidance system. The concept evolved into a wearable haptic device that was connected to a voice-guided GPS app, enabling users to confidently navigate while freeing up their hands and hearing.

How it works

Halo is a wearable wristband embedded with three coin-type vibration motors, powered and controlled by a low-power ESP32 microcontroller. The ESP32 is selected for its built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities, compact size, and low cost. The band is connected to a smartphone app that uses gps for real-time navigation. As the user walks, the app converts turn-by-turn directions into Bluetooth signals sent to the ESP32. A left turn triggers the left-side motor. A right turn triggers the right-side motor. A double vibration from the center motor indicates "move forward." A strong pulse from all motors signals “stop” or “obstacle ahead.” An optional ultrasonic sensor (HC-SR04) can be added to detect nearby obstacles and trigger haptics autonomously. The device runs on a 3.7V LiPo battery (around 500mAh) and can be recharged via USB-C.

Design process

The idea began with hand-drawn sketches of a wristband featuring three vibration zones for directional guidance. To simulate the concept, we created a mockup using a fabric strap and attached small circular modules to represent motors. With limited time, we assembled a basic prototype using an ESP32 microcontroller, coin vibration motors, and a 3.7V LiPo battery. We connected the ESP32 to a mobile phone via Bluetooth and tested manual signal triggering to simulate GPS instructions. We iteratively adjusted motor placement for ergonomic comfort and clearer feedback. A user test was done blindfolded to check clarity of haptic cues, leading to refinements in motor strength and positioning. Materials were selected for flexibility, affordability, and comfort. This version lays the groundwork for future testing and refinement with real users and app integration.

How it is different

Halo breaks away from audio-dependent and visually focused assistive devices. Unlike voice-only GPS apps, it doesn't block the user's hearing or rely on screens. Unlike smart canes or glasses, it's wearable and affordable. It uses a dual guidance system—vibration and voice—to adapt to noisy or quiet environments. Most similar products require costly LIDAR or camera tech. Haptic Halo is low-cost, modular, and globally scalable. Its intuitive design empowers users with subtle, real-time navigation cues that don’t draw attention or interfere with daily life.

Future plans

The next phase includes designing a pendant or smart glasses with an integrated camera and microphone for real-time object recognition and voice-assisted guidance. This will enhance precision in complex urban settings. We also plan to add indoor navigation using BLE beacons and obstacle detection via ultrasonic sensors. Collaboration with assistive tech NGOs and testing with users will guide further refinements. Our long-term goal is to offer a full ecosystem of discreet assistive wearables at an affordable cost worldwide.

Awards