honda unveils ‘ashirase’, a navigation system in shoes to help the visually impaired while walking

honda motor co together with its new business creation program IGNITION is currently developing ‘ashirase’—a navigation system placed inside shoes to support the visually impaired with walking. the navigation system includes a smartphone app and a vibration device with a motion sensor that is attached inside the shoe. ‘ashirase’ is aimed to begin sales before the end of march 31, 2023.

all images courtesy of honda

the device by honda and IGNITION vibrated to provide navigation based on the route set with the corresponding application. the vibration depends on the direction the user is supposed to take. for example, when the user should walk straight, the vibrator positioned on the front part of the foot will vibrate. when the user is approaching a left or a right turn, the vibrator on the right or left side vibrates to notify the user.

‘ashirase’ makes walking for visually impaired people safer and with a stress-free state of mind. it enables an intuitive understanding of the route so the user does not have to be constantly aware of the direction they want to take. according to honda, the navigation is provided through vibration on the foot, so as not to interfere with the user’s hand which is holding a white cane, or ears used to listen to ambient sounds.

moreover, the vibrators are aligned with the nerve layer of the foot making it easy to feel the vibration. the device uses data based on the user’s foot movement is made of soft material that maintains the original shape to limit any uneasiness for the user. with the concept of ‘navigation which enables safety and a relaxed state of mind for the visually impaired,’ ‘ashriase’ is being developed as a product that helps the users reach their destinations safely and have a more independent lifestyle.

project info:

name: ‘ashirase’

designer: honda and IGNITION