Glidance Inc., based in Seattle, is focused on developing a technological solution named Glide, a robotic walking aid aimed at enhancing the independence of individuals with vision impairments. Glide is equipped with an ergonomic handle and a suite of sensors that help users to navigate obstacles, waypoints and alert users to the presence of stairs and elevators. In October 2023, Glidance, a resident member of MassRobotics, secured a win at the RoboBusiness Pitchfire startup competition. The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) has recognized the company with an innovation award, and it is slated to showcase Glide at CES 2024, scheduled from January 9-12 in Las Vegas.
The founder and CEO of Glidance, Amos Miller, shared insights into the creation and mission of Glide in an interview with The Robot Report. Miller, driven by his personal experiences of sight loss due to retinitis pigmentosa, is determined to revolutionize mobility for the visually impaired. Glide uses artificial intelligence and sensors to guide users, assist in obstacle avoidance, and foster independence, allowing them to move confidently.
Miller’s vision loss journey began in his twenties, and by thirty, he had completely lost his sight. Despite utilizing a guide dog and learning cane navigation, Miller faced daily mobility challenges. The shortcomings of these traditional aids sparked the concept for Glide—combining the benefits of a guide dog with advanced technology to better navigate unfamiliar environments.
Explaining the design philosophy behind Glide, Miller highlighted the importance of user agency. Initial designs with motorized wheels led to loss of control for users; hence, Glidance opted for a design where the user nudges the device forward, retaining full control of movement and speed. This choice improved the user experience, reduced the system’s complexity, and made the device lighter and more affordable.
Glide’s obstacle-avoidance system uses a combination of local and global planning sensors to navigate around obstructions, while feedback is provided through haptics and audio cues. The learning curve for Glide is notably shorter than that for guide dogs, offering a practical solution for those with significant sight loss who would otherwise not benefit from a guide dog.
Miller addressed the integration of Glide with GPS and mapping applications, emphasizing its compatibility with existing navigation tools to assist with wayfinding. He outlined a cost structure akin to cellphone subscription models to ensure affordability and accessibility. With plans to collaborate with the VA and insurance companies, Glidance aims to launch a beta program in spring 2024. Lastly, Miller mentioned CTA’s provision of a free booth for Glidance at CES 2024’s Eureka Park.
