Toyota Robotics BLAID.
Experiential Prototype for the Visually Impaired.

The Toyota Robotics BLAID experiential prototype enables visually impaired users to navigate their surroundings with greater confidence and safety.

Related Services
Future Vision Work, Interaction Design

Role
Interaction Design Director, Client Relationship Lead

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An Immersive Guidance Experience

The BLAID device integrates a suite of cameras, sensors, and haptic and acoustic technologies to guide users through physical spaces. Designed to recognize environmental elements and teach users how to navigate around them, the system supports four core modes of use identified through research with visually impaired individuals: exploring, scanning, capturing, and finding.

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The Toyota Robotics BLAID system leveraged several cameras and a haptic and auditory user interface to guide the visually impaired.

BLAID Modes of Use

The Toyota Blade concept uses four distinct modes—Explore, Scan, Capture, and Find—to help visually impaired individuals navigate spaces with greater confidence. Explore provides real-time spatial awareness, guiding users through their environment. Scan identifies nearby objects or points of interest, offering detailed audio feedback. Capture allows users to record and store spatial information for later reference. Finally, Find helps locate specific items or destinations within a space, making navigation more intuitive and empowering for users.

BLAID Concept Features

Overview of BLAID product features.

Key Aspects of BLAID

Blending In

Many individuals with impaired abilities express a strong desire to experience the world as others do—without standing out. They often note that if technology can help compensate for their impairments, it should ideally benefit everyone. With that in mind, BLAID was designed as a discreet personal technology device, blending seamlessly into everyday life—much like a common pair of headphones.

Intuitive Interaction

Users interact with the BLAID device by pressing one of four tactilely differentiated buttons. A quick tap on any mode button prompts the device to scan and identify key elements in the environment, such as restroom signs. Additionally, users can easily store navigational paths and waypoints, enabling them to confidently navigate unfamiliar spaces.

 

Rough, Rapid, and Right Functional Prototype

The alpha prototype featured fully functional components, enabling a complete simulation of the user experience.

Appearance Model

Textures, weights, fabrics, and cable routing methods were evaluated with users to determine a component layout and material selection that supports all-day comfort.