Tech notice of science charity
THE Roovision helmet could revolutionise the way visuallyimpaired people enjoy sport and entertainment, its creator Rupert Powell says.
And as well as aiding fans like Ian Wood, it could help with tasks like shopping and crossing the road. Ian is now a fundraiser for the charity Remap, which provided the kit.
Volunteer Rupert said: “I want people to be aware this exists as we are poised to make more – and Remap could always use more volunteers to help produce them.”
The gadget uses a high-definition camera with a powerful motorised zoom. It is mounted on the headset so wherever the user looks, they get a high-contrast image on an internal LCD screen – a modified version of a virtual reality headset.
It is connected to an affordable Raspberry Pi computer which processes the image and enhance brightness. A wireless Playstation controller adjusts the focus, though Ian does not use this because he always has it on maximum zoom.
The kit is mounted to a ski helmet for comfort.
Rupert added: “It took a year to develop the idea and the original cost £600 to make. I’ve reduced cost as I’ve gone along and can now make it for under £500 in a couple of weeks. It’s based on very readily available and inexpensive components.”