"The beam edges are sharp which facilitates the clear location of obstacles.
A pulsating tactile signal is excellent. It was excellent at giving adequate warning
of metal tubular poles and bollards. I found the focus of the beam to be such as
to permit the location of up-steps and even some irregularities in the paving. Interference
by ultrasonic noise from vehicles including underground trains was virtually non-existent.
The beam gives adequate warning of obstacles both at ground and head height. As an
experienced user, I felt quite confident with the device within a few minutes. However
all mobility aids need many hours of practice. The aid will not warn of what is not
there, such as the "drop-off". However, the user can concentrate on finding
down steps etc with a stick. I consider it to be a first-class ultrasonic mobility
aid. Its design is neat and convenient of use. I am a little concerned about the
expense of operation when compared with the rechargeable battery. However, one must
set against this the convenience of not having to remember to charge the device up.
All one needs to do is carry a spare cell in one's pocket.", "I am using
a leather spectacle case to keep the Palmsonar in when not in use." Kenneth
Rosser, UK
"As a person who prefers audio to vibro-tactile information, I very much like
the Palmsonar. Its beam is narrow, making location of objects very accurate. I have
to remember to scan a bit wider to avoid sideswiping objects. What I really like
about the Palmsonar is the convenience and its reliable detection of even small objects.
I'll simply leave it strapped during a train trip because it's comfortable and convenient
to do so. Changing the battery every two weeks or so is considerably less convenient.
This is a well conceptualised and well constructed device." Andrew Downie, Australia
"Although my former ultrasonic devices had done good job, I wanted them to be
much smaller. The new product is satisfactory. Now, it becomes a daily necessity.
I can not leave it." Teacher of blind school, Ehime, Japan
"Thank you very much for the development. I had desired if there was such a
device before." Woman, Ehime, Japan
"This device has been desired because I had been making good use of ultrasonic
devices. I am recommending it to the colleagues." Teacher of blind school, Gifu,
Japan
"It makes remarkable performance. Sufferings from scratch and bruise while walking
have decreased sharply." Man, Gifu, Japan
"It is designed deliberately. It is very easy to use. Practice is necessary.
I am surprised that such an extraordinarily small case carries the performance this
much. I like the crispness of the vibration. It is hard to find functional problems.
Through the evaluation of every kind of products for the blind, it is evaluated to
be the best. It is a task to manage the price." Teachers of blind school, Shizuoka,
Japan
"In spite of the severe coldness of this winter, it is working favorably almost
without problem. It becomes an indispensable item to ensure the safety during everyday
walking." Man, Sapporo (city where the winter Olympic Games had been once held),
Japan
"It is useful to find a vacant seat in a train. The 2 meter range is useful
in urban pedestrian street. The palm band which I proposed is useful." President
of shop for the blind, Osaka, Japan
"During 25 minute walk to work through rice-field, there are utility poles along
any paths. The ultrasonic finds objects before a long cane does. When I use Palmsonar
together with a long cane, the ratio of contribution is 1 to 2 respectively outdoors,
2 to 1 respectively indoors. I can know a train is waiting. I can follow a queue
without hitting others. It is indispensable. It is like a float for swimming. Unless
it is with me, I feel anxiety. Mental mapping enables orientation. It takes 3 months
to get confident. The 1.2 meter range which I have long requested are actually useful
at the work place." Curer at hospital, Aichi, Japan
"It reacts wonderfully. The fatigue during working has decreased. It is the
minimum requirement not to tumble the elderly. It makes me keep employment to continue
independent life. Before I bought Palmsonar, I had bought a similar one after a comparison
of the two because of its much cheaper price, however it had not helped me. The product
for the disabled people should assure the result because the users usually have little
knowledge. Now the Palmsonar was an inexpensive buy to keep my income." Function
training instructor of elderly nursing home, Tokyo, Japan
"I use it like a 4 meter long cane. It becomes a part of my body as if I can
not do without it. The tension of the body is easer than the time with less information.
The performance suggests that the engineer is particular about every part. When I
am ascending stairs, it tells where the stairs end. The response within 50 centimeters
is useful where delicate action is required, such as in a crowded elevator and at
a tableware shop. I am used to switching the range frequently according to the situation.
It is not bulky even in a pocket. It is possible to use on business because it is
not conspicuous. It helps to find partner when we shake hands. It is convenient to
turn a doorknob with the worn hand. I am used to wear it on the back of the hand
to make the hand freer. When I took part in a moving out, I could find and carry
packages without bumping and put it at right place. With a guide dog, the stopping
can be anticipated and it is useful for the situation judgement." Manager of
a company, Tokyo, Japan
"Trailing is very useful during 45 minute walk to work. It is useful for the
active people. It is not only practical but also pleasant to use. I feel comfortable.
When I stroll, I am impressed that I can feel environment around as if I am touching.
It reminds me of the image which was lost long ago." Instructor of National
Rehabilitation Center, Saitama, Japan
Jan 16, 2007
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