BEACON:
Carried by leading guide. Transmits a modified Bluetooth radio beacon that is pulsed multiple times each second. The beacon signal is received by an electronics unit mounted on the VibroGuide vest. The beacon electronics are enclosed in a water and shock resistant case that is about the size of a paperback book.
VIBROGUIDE VEST and ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT:
Worn by blind or visually impaired athlete. Receives beacon signal, calculates angle and distance to the guide and supplies correction vibrations in the vest for navigation. Optionally announces distance and direction to the guide.
Inside hook-and-loop is covered with soft fleece for comfort.
GUIDE ASSIST:
Optional – carried by guide. This unit not only provides the beacon signal but also receives and displays real-time data from the vest. It allows a guide to monitor vest direction and distance instructions as well as alerts guide of radio failure. The Guide Assist electronics are enclosed in a water and shock resistant case that is about the size of a paperback book.
How Guide Assist Works: Both the VibroGuide vest as well as the Guide Assist device are connected with their own WIFI network. Both have an inertial measurement unit (IMU) built into their electronics. An IMU detects tilt, acceleration and spin. This data helps inform the guide when the vest wearer is stopped or moving and LED lights indicate direction that the vest is calculating.
Guide Assist is optional and can be used in place of the beacon – it just has the additional features mentioned above. This eliminates the need for the guide to carry two devices.
WATER SPORTS VEST
A side-entry life-jacket (personal flotation device) can be modified with hook-and-loop pads installed to mount the VibroGuide electronics as well as the vibration modules. Connection is made with a waterproof aviation cable. Inside vest hook-and-loop is covered with soft fleece for comfort. These are permanent alterations made to the life vest and have little effect on buoyancy. We may offer retrofits as a service or as a DIY kit.
