MUKANA: Let's Wear Technology!

MUKANA offers a wearable navigation solution for people with partial sight, which includes a wireless headset, mobile phone, GPS module and voice recognition software. The device can give location updates, routes, destination, and the schedule of public transportation.

MUKANA, which could also be used as a phone, has Bluetooth® enabled wireless headset and an integrated 10-key Braille number pad. Extra batteries guarantee the long-term performance. The pockets are used for charging and storing the headset. The Braille keypad is located at 90 degrees in front of the garment, to enable ergonomic movement of the hand.

The Finnish Federation of the Visually Impaired, the University of Art and Design Helsinki, and the Technical Research Center of Finland is developing the sash, which is at the prototype stage. A group of visually impaired participated throughout the development process and tested the final prototype thoroughly.

MUKANA, which avant-garde clothing for the visually impaired, links technology with textile and endorses an innovative approach to dressing up. It is made of materials that have special sensory qualities to appeal to the visually impaired. The structure of the garment consists of Neoprene®, a very long-lasting, flexible, and water resistant material with a special coating, glued 0seams, and water repellent zips. The outer ridges have reflective piping and the keypad is enclosed with reflective material to increase the security of the design.

The design and production were carried out between Paula Loppenen, an industrial designer specialized in usability and ergonomics, and Ville Tikka who was in charge of the interaction design of the project. Paivi Haaksiluoto, a fashion designer, gave it technical interpretation and design. The design and realization of the multimedia presentation is by industrial designer Tatu Marttila.

Source: Engadget