3D Printing Procedure Applied in the Design of Portable Devices for Visual Aid

Abstract:

Low vision" is a pathological condition caused by an ocular illness in which the visual acuity is 20/70 or less in the better eye and cannot be corrected or enhanced with ordinary glasses (spectacles). Most visually impaired people have some degree of instability, which highlights the need for some help, both for travel and for support in standing. Existing systems are complex, useful, diversified in relation to patient requirements, fixed or mobile, but all require manual use that limits mobility and accessibility. In this research we propose a portable system designed as a structure created by 3D printing of thermoplastic materials and composite materials. Inside of this structure, optimized as an assembly space, the electronic system is designed for guidance and warning actions adapted to the patient with low vision. The system is designed to be easy to use, to have a very low weight and to be adaptable to any anthropometric dimension of patient or mobility space. The thermoplastic and composite materials, as well as the 3D printing technology, allow, for a low weight and an affordable price, to obtain a system that gives more stability and mobility to patients with low vision or blindness.

• Periodical: Materials Science Forum (Volume 957)
• Pages: 379-388
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/MSF.957.379
• Online since: June 2019
• Authors: Gabriela Mirela Apostoaie, Mihaela Ioana Baritz*
• Keywords: 3D Printing, Device, Visual Aid

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