NeuroLab Files Patent for "AI Guide Runner Robot for the Visually Impaired"

NeuroLab, an affiliate of Kosdaq-listed EM&I, has filed a patent for a "guide runner robot for the visually impaired."

According to NeuroLab on June 9, this patent covers technology that supports visually impaired individuals to run freely without relying on a human guide runner. The robot moves alongside the user, recognizing obstacles and terrain in real time and providing guidance on route and pace.

Notably, the invention was co-developed by Sunchoon Lee, a former national marathoner and former coach of the Seoul City Hall athletics team. Drawing on his extensive experience as an athlete and coach, Lee contributed to the technical design by incorporating elements essential for running, such as speed control, running rhythm, and safety. He currently operates Team Sun Running Class and the YouTube channel "Sun Coach."

The guide runner robot developed by NeuroLab is designed to accompany the user at close range, using sensors that detect obstacles, people, and terrain, as well as autonomous driving capabilities. Users receive tactile information via the robot’s arm or a connecting device, enabling them to intuitively perceive changes in direction or speed.

While traditional walking aids focus on guidance using tactile paving or specific road markings, this technology is developed for a variety of running environments, such as parks and tracks. It responds in real time to the user's movements and speed changes, avoiding obstacles and providing route guidance. To offer an experience similar to that of a human guide runner, it also features a rhythm guidance function utilizing the movement of the robotic arm. Users can naturally maintain their pace while running, and the combined tactile and voice guidance ensures reliable information delivery even in noisy environments.

NeuroLab plans to further advance its AI-based autonomous navigation and robot control technologies, aiming to expand applications from sports and rehabilitation for the visually impaired to a wide range of welfare services.

A representative from NeuroLab stated, "Our goal is to help visually impaired individuals enjoy physical activity freely, overcoming the challenge of securing a guide runner," adding, "We will continue to develop diverse solutions that utilize embodied AI-based robotic technology to expand mobility rights and sports participation opportunities for people with disabilities."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.