Blindness Visualizer: A Simulated Navigation Experience

Exploration of the challenges faced by individuals who are non sighted or visually impaired has primarily been limited to physical methods such as blindfolds and controlled environments. Using virtual reality, we provide a simulation of blind navigation using a shader effect with scattered light. The scattered light represents the auditory and haptic feedback that the player receives while using a walking cane to navigate the virtual environment. We discuss methods of development, and goals for this simulation.