BlindFind Navigation System

10 months

Brown University · BlindFind Team l R&D Assistant

Advisors

Benjamin Kimia

Soojung Ham

Collaborators

Chiang-Heng Chien

Claire Kim

Tools

Rhino 3D, CAD Modeling, 3D Printing, Hardware Prototyping, User Testing, DFM

Project Overview

BlindFind is a wearable navigation system that helps visually impaired users safely navigate public indoor environments. The system provides spatial guidance through a combination of wearable hardware and real-time environmental sensing.

Key Contributions

• Repositioning internal components to improve weight balance and guide the initial form factor direction
• Designing an adjustable prototype to support rapid iteration and repeated testing
• Applying design-for-manufacturing (DFM) principles to inform early hardware design decisions
• Developing an FOV calibration module to reduce redesign risk and optimize camera module placement

* Additional development and final concepts were explored but are not shown due to confidentiality.

Concept

Background

Visually impaired users are particularly vulnerable to unexpected obstacles in complex, three-dimensional indoor environments with limited navigation cues. BlindFind was initiated to explore how wearable sensing and real-time feedback can enable safer and more intuitive indoor navigation.

Project Scope

This slide illustrates my role within the project. The blue-tinted area highlights the portion showcased in this portfolio.

Design direction

Component Integration Strategy

Components were reorganized based on wearability, weight, and sensing stability. Alignment-critical components were integrated into the head mount, while bulky and heavy components were offloaded to a wearable module.

Design Vision

The design vision was intentionally defined free from current component size and engineering constraints to explore the ideal end state of the eyewear system.

Form Factor Prioritization for System Validation

Each form factor was evaluated to determine the most suitable option for scalable testing and early validation, guiding the selection of the initial development direction.

Compact Architecture

Integrates all required components within a compact structural layout.

Weight Distribution

Balanced component distribution prevents a front-heavy feel.

Optimal Sensing

Maintains consistent, optimal camera sensing performance during use.

Universal Fit

Ensures a comfortable, secure fit across a wide range of users.

Design Principles

I established clear design priorities for the overall system before exploring the initial form factor.

FOV Calibration Module to Minimize Rework

I developed a modular calibration system to define camera placement and field of view early, minimizing downstream rework caused by technical constraints.

Form Factor Exploration

I explored and defined the foundational design direction and system architecture, grounded in a goggle-style form factor designed to accommodate multiple components.

Initial Form Factor

This initial concept explores a refined form that ensures proper camera field of view while seamlessly incorporating essential components.

Adjustment Method

A slide-based adjustment system was selected based on these evaluations, following exploration of multiple adjustment mechanisms to balance fit, stability, and internal space.

Wear Testing and Iterative Refinement

The 3D-printed prototype was tested in real-world conditions, and feedback was used to refine the fit and structural design to better accommodate a wide range of users.

Refinement

Structural Reinforcement and Assembly Optimization

To maintain a thin shell for compactness and weight reduction, ribs were added to improve structural rigidity and ease of assembly.
In addition, the rail end cap was designed with a dedicated snap-fit mechanism to allow easy attachment and removal during testing.

Port Geometry Refinement

The shell geometry was aligned with the connector to minimize component damage during insertion and removal, while also reducing debris ingress.

Simplified Connection for Accessibility

Designed to minimize size and support visually impaired users, the interface simplifies interaction by consolidating two USB inputs into a single USB or magnetic connection.

* Testing confirmed that this single-cable method delivers stability and reliability equivalent to individual connections, without compromising performance.

Component Layout and Shell Redesign (DFM)

To support an additional prototype stage, the shell design was revised for injection moldability as part of DFM considerations.

ImagES

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