NCT07218991 · The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston
Wearable Echolocation Aids Using Parametric Sound
What this study is about
The objective of this study is to study a novel device designed to aid patients with impaired vision to safely navigate their environment. Subjects for this study will be individuals with normal vision, either with or without correction. The subjects will wear a device to simulate impaired vision and will be asked to walk a path with randomly placed obstacles during two trials.
View original scientific description
The objective of this study is to study a novel device designed to aid patients with impaired vision to safely navigate their environment. Subjects for this study will be individuals with normal vision, either with or without correction. The subjects will wear a device to simulate impaired vision and will be asked to walk a path with randomly placed obstacles during two trials. One of the trials will consist of the subject wearing the simulator alone. The other trial will consist of the subject wearing the simulator and the study device. The study device is designed to be worn by the study subject and will emit tones to indicate obstacles in the environment as the subject walks on the path with random obstacles. The tones will indicate that there is an obstacle in the individual's path and will increase in intensity as the subject moves closer to the object.
Interventions
DEVICE
Wearable Echolocation Device
The device features many parametric speakers housed in a plastic case. The parametric speakers emit directional sound waves that return to the source with varying wavelengths depending on the distance of the surrounding objects. The device is designed to be worn by the subject either using a lanyard on the subject's neck, or on the subject's wrist.
Primary outcome measures
Change in Stride Length for Visually Impaired Individuals with Implementation of Echolocation Technology
Time frame: Baseline (pre-training) and immediately post-training (same 30 minute session)
Stride length will be measured using the Zeno Walkway system, an electronic, pressure-sensitive mat connected to a PC that automates the measurement of spatial and temporal aspects of gait. The walkway's high-resolution sensors capture real-time data as participants walk across it. Each participant will walk on the instrumented mat for approximately 30 minutes, allowing for detailed analysis of stride length. Mean stride length (in meters) will be calculated from multiple trials to assess changes following implementation of echolocation technology.
Change in Cadence for Visually Impaired Individuals with Implementation of Echolocation Technology
Time frame: Baseline (pre-training) and immediately post-training (same 30 minute session)
Cadence (steps per minute) will be assessed using the Zeno Walkway system, an electronic, pressure-sensitive mat that captures real-time gait data. Participants will walk across the instrumented walkway for approximately 30 minutes. The system will automatically record and calculate the average number of steps per minute to evaluate changes in cadence following implementation of echolocation technology.
Change in Walking Velocity for Visually Impaired Individuals with Implementation of Echolocation Technology
Time frame: Baseline (pre-training) and immediately post-training (same 30 minute session)
Walking velocity will be measured using the Zeno Walkway system, an electronic, pressure-sensitive mat that captures spatial and temporal aspects of gait. Participants will walk across the walkway for approximately 30 minutes. The system will automatically calculate average walking velocity (in meters per second) based on distance and time. This outcome will be used to evaluate improvements in gait speed following implementation of echolocation technology.
Change in Body Mass Index (BMI) for Visually Impaired Individuals with Implementation of Echolocation Technology
Time frame: Baseline (pre-training) and immediately post-training (same 30 minute session)
Body Mass Index (BMI) will be calculated using standard anthropometric measures of height and weight (weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared). Measurements will be taken at each study visit to assess any change in BMI that may occur following implementation of echolocation technology.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Subject has provided informed consent in a manner approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) and is willing and able to comply with the trial procedures.
- Adults at least 18 years of age and no older than 100 years of age at the time of consent.
- Individuals in good health who can perform daily activities without assistance and can walk independently.
- Normal vision (with or without corrective lenses) if there is no uncorrectable visual impairment.
Exclusion criteria
- History of gait problems.
- Foot or leg impairments.
- Hearing impairment.
- Vertigo or other balance problems.
- Pregnant individuals.
- Any medical condition that, in the opinion of the investigator, would place the subject at increased risk for participation.
- Medications that may cause dizziness or weakness.
- Concurrent participation on another research study.
- Use of an investigational agent in the 30 days prior to signing informed consent.
- History of prior non-compliance.
- Presence or history of psychiatric condition (including anxiety, psychosis, drug, or alcohol addiction) that would, in the opinion of the investigator, make it difficult for the subject to comply with the study procedures or follow the investigators instructions.
- Non-English-speaking individuals.
- Individuals from special or vulnerable populations (i.e., adults unable to consent, minors, incarcerated individuals).
- Body weight greater than 700 pounds.
Where
- Galveston, Texas
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Oct 28, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations