Japanese automaker, Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced a new firm called Ashirase, Inc. It’s the first startup that came from Ignition, Honda’s new business creation program.
Ashirase, Inc.’s first technologically advanced product isn’t for cars. Instead, the company is developing an in-shoe navigation system to support blind and visually impaired individuals with navigation.
What is the navigation system called and how does it work?
The Ashirase uses a smartphone app and a 3D vibration device with a motion sensor that’s attached inside the shoe. With the use of vibrations, the Ashirase will tell the user when to go straight, turn right, turn left, and stop. Honda said that the product should enable an intuitive understanding of the route so users don’t have to constantly mindful of directions for a safer and more relaxed walk.