Handheld 'robotic guide dog' will help people with visual impairments

A student has designed a handheld'robotic guide dog' to help support people with visual impairments who are unable to house a real assistance animal. Loughborough University design engineer Anthony Camu was inspired to develop the device by responsive virtual reality gaming controllers. Dubbed'Theia' -- after the Titan goddess of light in Greek mythology -- the prototype can replicate the key functions of a real guide dog. The voice-activated device can program quick and safe routes to given destinations using real-time online data -- much like a car's satnav -- and onboard sensors. Force feedback delivered through Theia's handle then helps direct the user -- creating a sensation the designers say is similar to the pull of a guide dog's leash.