Honda Ashirase: Walking Assistance System for the Visually Impaired

Global Visual Impairment and a New Navigation Solution

Worldwide, approximately 225 million individuals experience moderate to severe visual impairments, with 49.1 million people being completely blind, as reported by 2020 data published in the Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science journal. A Japanese startup, nurtured within Honda Motor Company’s business incubation program, is developing technology to enhance safety and ease of navigation for those with visual impairments.

Introducing Ashirase: In-Shoe Navigation

Ashirase, the inaugural venture stemming from Honda’s Ignition program, unveiled details of its innovative in-shoe navigation system for individuals with low vision on Tuesday. The system is designed to foster greater independence in everyday life by conveying directional guidance through subtle vibrations within the shoe, linked to a smartphone navigation application. The company anticipates commencing sales of the Ashirase system by October 2022.

The Genesis of Ashirase at Honda Ignition

Honda established Ignition in 2017 as a platform to cultivate original technologies, concepts, and designs originating from Honda employees. The program’s objective is to address societal challenges and extend beyond Honda’s conventional business scope. CEO Wataru Chino previously contributed to Honda’s R&D efforts, focusing on EV motor control and automated driving systems since 2008.

Drawing Inspiration from Automotive Technology

Chino’s expertise is clearly reflected in the navigation system’s underlying technology. He explained that the system draws inspiration from advanced driver-assist and autonomous driving technologies.

“A key parallel lies in how we process sensor data,” Chino stated to TechCrunch. “We employ sensor fusion technology, enabling the integration of information from multiple sensors. My experience in this area is invaluable, and there’s a clear connection to automated driving, as the principles of safe navigation informed our conceptualization.”

Understanding the Name and Core Functionality

The name “Ashirase” is derived from the Japanese words “ashi” (foot) and “shirase” (notification). True to its name, the device, affixed to the shoe, utilizes vibrations to provide navigational cues based on a pre-set route within a companion app.

The system leverages motion sensors – including accelerometers, gyro sensors, and orientation sensors – to accurately interpret the user’s walking pattern.

Localization and Map Integration

During outdoor navigation, the system determines the user’s location using global navigation satellite positioning data, combined with information derived from the user’s foot movements. Ashirase’s application integrates with various map providers, such as Google Maps, and can dynamically adapt to differing map data availability.

This adaptability is particularly useful for receiving real-time updates, such as road closures, via over-the-air updates from maps with the most current information.

Future Development: Self-Generating Maps

“Our long-term vision includes developing the capability to generate maps autonomously using sensors from the surrounding environment,” Chino noted, “though this is likely five years away.”

Intuitive Navigation Through Vibration

The vibrators are strategically positioned to align with the foot’s nerve pathways, ensuring clear tactile feedback. A vibration at the front of the shoe signals the user to proceed straight ahead. Vibrations on the left and right sides of the shoe indicate turning directions.

This intuitive form of navigation aims to promote a more relaxed state of mind for the walker, reducing constant alertness and contributing to a safer, less stressful walking experience.

Enhanced Environmental Awareness

The system also allows users to dedicate more attention to auditory cues in their surroundings, such as traffic sounds at a crosswalk, as the device does not provide obstacle detection.

Adapting to Different Levels of Visual Impairment

“We are also considering technical enhancements for individuals with total blindness, who lack the residual vision that allows low-vision users to perceive some environmental information,” Chino explained. “Currently, the device is specifically designed for those with low vision.”

Indoor Navigation Solutions

GPS signals are unavailable indoors, such as within shopping malls, and existing maps may not provide adequate localization data. To address this, the company plans to implement WiFi or Bluetooth-based positioning, connecting to nearby devices and cell phones to pinpoint the user’s location.

Integration with Public Transportation

Ashirase is also exploring integration with public transit systems, enabling the device to notify users upon arrival at or proximity to their designated stops.

Design and Practicality

The device is designed to be versatile and compatible with various shoe types, shapes, and sizes. Chino stated that the device requires charging only once a week with approximately three hours of daily use.

Timeline and Business Model

Ashirase plans to release a beta version for testing and data collection in October or November of this year, with the goal of achieving mass production by October 2022. The company will employ a direct-to-consumer sales model, with pricing details to be announced, alongside a subscription service anticipated to cost between 2,000 and 3,000 Japanese Yen ($18 to $27) per month.

Funding and Future Outlook

Chino estimates that bringing the product to market will require 200 million Yen ($1.8 million), including funds already secured. To date, the company has raised 70 million Yen ($638,000) through equity and non-equity investment rounds.

Honda maintains an investment stake in the company, providing support and monitoring its progress. However, Ashirase’s ultimate ambition is to operate as an independent, publicly traded entity.