Ashirase

“Ashirase” is a walking navigation service for the visually impaired that uses a vibration device attached to the user's shoes. By linking the “Ashirase” device with an Android device, it provides directions and guidance on which way to go via vibrations on the top of the foot or heel. When navigating, users can anticipate the distance to the next turn and whether to turn right or left at that turn. Regarding direction, the “Ashirase” app determines which way to go relative to the user’s current orientation—whether at the start of navigation or upon approaching the destination—and the “Ashirase” device attached to the user’s foot conveys this information via vibration. Because “Ashirase” conveys route information through vibration, it does not interfere with the user’s vision or hearing, helping visually impaired individuals walk safely.