Description
The UltraCane is an electronic mobility aid for use by visually impaired people that delivers a "step forward" in assistive technology. New biomimicry device for independence.
The UltraCane gives mobility assistance to blind and partially-sighted people by emitting ultrasonic waves, just like the echolocation system used by bats and dolphins. In fact, it was from the knowledge and understanding of bats that the UltraCane was first developed. The bat emits an ultrasonic pulse and times how long it takes for the echo to return. By its implicit knowlege of the velocity of sound in air, the bat is able to calculate the distance to the object. This knowledge has been transferred to the UltraCane, which works in a similar way.
Ultrasonic waves are emitted through two transducers on the handle of the UltraCane and bounce off objects and obstructions in the path of the user.
The UltraCane has two ranges to choose from: a short range mode, which detects obstacles within approximately 2 metres of the handle, and a long range mode, which detects obstacles within 4 metres of the handle. The upper transducer can locate objects approximately 1.6 metres from the handle.
Feedback on obstacles is provided through two vibrating buttons located on the handle. These indicate the proximity of the object, and whether it is low down and in front of the user, or whether it is at or above head height. This tactile feedback provides the user with much more detailed information about potential dangers ahead than is possible with a traditional white cane. It is particularly useful for warning of hazards at head height.
The UltraCane gives the user more knowledge about their environment and enables them to make decisions much more quickly, thus allowing them to move around more safely, confidently and effectively.
Downloads
Chapter 1:The UltraCane
Chapter 2: User Feedback Comments
Chapter 3:The Science Behind the Invention
User Guide PDF
User Guide online
User Guide Français
User Guide Deutsch
How to choose the correct length UltraCane
UltraCane comes in a selection of lengths If you are a standard white cane user, then please use the current length of your cane and order the same size UltraCane. Sizes available range from 110cm to 150cm in 5cm increments. If your existing cane size falls between the UltraCane sizes, for instance if your cane is 122cm, then please order a 125cm UltraCane. We recommend that you order a cane at the next longer size rather than ordering a cane that is too short.
If you do not have a standard white cane, it is important to ensure that you order the correct Ultracane length to suit your height. If the UltraCane is too short, the user will hold it at too steep an angle, and the sensors will point downwards towards the floor, How to size your UltraCane which will give constant obstacle detection vibrations from the ground. If the cane is too long it will be held at too shallow an angle and it may not detect objects on the ground forward of the user.
As a guide only, to obtain the correct measurement for an UltraCane you will need to measure from the centre of your breastbone down to the ground. If you are unsure then please ask someone to help you. Alternatively, please contact us for further assistance.
Please contact us if you require an UltraCane length that is not advertised, as we may be able to supply UltraCane’s shorter than 110cm or longer than 150cm.
Rolling Ball Tip
Large 2-inch diameter sphere with encased stainless steel roller bearing. Greater sensitivity and visibility. Ideal for constant contact technique. Light weight and easy to maneuver. Easily handles road obstacles and pavement cracks.
Roller Tip
Unique marshmallow style tip with encased roller bearing allows tip to rotate in the same axis as the shaft of the cane. Users like it because of the enhanced tactile transmission and the reduction in the audible tap.
Testimonials
We fully understand and appreciate the benefits that the UltraCane can bring to a visually impaired person - how they develop much more confidence from using their cane, how it gives them so much more independence and allows them to visit places that they would not normally have visited. In short, how it changes their life. But please don't just take our word for it! Here are a few testimonials from existing UltraCane users: "Five minutes was enough to assess how useful it would be to me so I bought one there and then."
Mr A Bilal "The UltraCane is the last thing I pick up before I go out. I lay it down when I come back. I just wouldn't be without it."
Mr R Gray" I got used to using the UltraCane and felt strange when it wasn't there and I couldn't rely on the cues it provided.... By being able to literally feel the environment around me I was able to use more skills in travelling. It leads to more freedom."
Ms C Crespin" When using the UltraCane, people thought I was faking being blind, because I would tell them where things were and go around them and navigate well in different places without a lot of help. I amaze myself sometimes!"
Ms A Bradstreet. "Independent travel using the UltraCane is a wonderful thing, it not only makes you more confident but simply adds joy and excitement to your travels - a true feeling of independence.
Mr G Murphy" I noticed a kind of freedom harking back to a time when a sighted me could amble along with a friend."
Mr P Jensen" The speed I can go at is much improved with the UltraCane. I get advance warning so I can move around whatever is there without needing to stop so I can keep my momentum!"
Mr J McAfferty" The developers have taken the time to ask blind people, and to involve them in trials. I am convinced it is going to be a real benefit to the blind and partially sighted users."
Mr A Brooks." My clients have been pleased with the UltraCane's simplicity of operation and ease of use. SInce everything is incorporated into a long cane, there is nothing additional needed. There are no external wires, earphones, battery packs etc., just everything all in one. It offers excellent protection not only straight ahead, but from the cane hand upwards, which a simple long cane alone cannot do."
Mr Mike Corbett, Orientation and Mobility Specialist, USA" The area I visited is highly congested. There is much foot traffic, the footways are crowded and one needs to progress slowly even if fully sighted. There are many obstacles beyond the usual tables and people standing and talking oblivious to passers-by. I found the UltraCane to be most excellent in this situation. It was constantly keeping me updated about people and obstacles."
Mr B Campbell