Navigational System for the Blind Wins Intel Award

The work by Ameen Abdulrasool (Chicago) on a navigational system for the blind, was one of the student projects that won top awards today at the 2005 Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (Intel ISEF).

“Intel ISEF reflects what can happen when students are encouraged to pursue a passion and investigate the world around them,” said Intel Corporation CEO Craig Barrett. “It is truly inspiring to see what today’s award winners have accomplished. I have faith that this new generation of young scientists and engineers will help cure diseases, protect the environment and develop breakthrough technologies that will one day change the world.”
 
Abdulrasool won a top prize for his behavioral and social sciences project, “Prototype for Autonomy: Pathway for the Blind.” Abdulrasool developed a self-contained navigational system for the visually impaired that combines GPS technology, verbal directional signals, and vibratory signal devices worn as bracelets. Abrulrasool’s project was inspired by his father, who is blind.
 
The category winner receives a $5,000 USD scholarship and an Intel Centrino mobile technology-based laptop computer. These students’ schools and fair directors also receive $1,000 USD to benefit science and mathematics education and encourage more student involvement in science.
 
Source: Intel