Kerala doctor develops ultrasonic glasses for the visually impaired

If all goes well, a unique ultrasonic device developed by a Keralite might replace the white cane usually used by the visually impaired. Inspired by bats’ ability for echolocation, a 75-year-old veteran medical practitioner from Kerala developed the working prototype of a device that can help the visually challenged. Dr Mathew Joseph, who has worked as an ophthalmologist for a long time, has already applied for a patent for his incredible device.

Echolocation allows bats to manoeuvre in darkness, using echoes of their ultrasonic calls to detect objects or prey in their vicinity. The bats' ultrasonic calls cannot be heard by humans, and the echoes are processed by the bats using their brains. Similarly, this device, which looks like a pair of spectacles, produces ultrasonic sounds from a transmitter.

The receivers catch the ultrasonic sounds that are echoed back and transform them into audible sound using the processor attached to the glasses. The audible sound is then played through the earphones worn by the person. Dr. Mathew Joseph says that his device is far better than a white cane at detecting obstacles.

The doctor previously worked at the Bishop Benziger Hospital. Now, he spends his free time doing experiments and inventing interesting devices. He has also developed a device that can quickly turn and steer ships. Dr. Mathew Joseph, Fr. Ferdinand Peter, former director of Bishop Benziger Hospital, and AK Nishant said that the working prototype could be remodelled into a smaller device that could be easily used by the visually impaired.