Google Helps the Blind
Google is working with the Perkins School for the Blind to build a better GPS. Right now the typical navigation system has a ‘last 30-feet’ problem, meaning directions to a destination end with 30-feet to spare. For example: If a blind girl was on her way to the bus stop, the GPS would tell you you’ve arrived at your destination in the general area, but the girl wouldn’t know exactly where the bus is going to stop. The Perkins School believes they can construct an app to solve for the problem and Google has stepped up to help, providing $750,000. The philanthropic branch of Google, Google.org, is issuing $20 million in grants to other organizations that are helping individuals with disabilities. You go Google. (Source: CNN)
Medical Breakthrough
After six years of extensive research, doctors at Ohio State have constructed a chip to help paralyzed individuals. Ian Burkhart was the first to test out the procedure as he broke his neck in a freak accident and has been paralyzed from the chest down ever since. After inserting the chip into Ian’s brain, he is now able to move his hand and do simple tasks like swipe a credit card and play guitar again. He is able to move his own hand by using his own thoughts. His brain signals are blocked by his spinal cord injuries, but the device is able to send signals to his arm instead. This medical breakthrough is the first account of limb reanimation and contains hope for individuals with stroke and traumatic brain injuries. (Source: The New York Times)
What to Say When Your Friend Turns Into a Cyborg…
“How do I become one?” The answer is found in e-skin displays. The display is made up of a protective clear film that goes over your skin. The film is considered ‘skin’ itself and is used to measure oxygen levels or heart rate within your organs. The simple idea behind this complex technology is to improve our health and well-being. “What would the world be like if we had displays that could adhere to our bodies and show our emotions or level of stress or unease,” said Takao Someya, e-skin researcher. Yes, we’re literally wearing our hearts on our sleeve now. (Source: TechCrunch)
