Eindhoven University of Technology Secures Major Grant for Haptic Technology Research
Eindhoven, Wednesday, 5 February 2025.
The Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research awarded over €900,000 for developing wearable technology to aid the visually impaired, improving navigation through innovative tactile feedback systems.
Groundbreaking HealthTech Development
This innovative healthtech initiative, led by researcher Danqing Liu at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), represents a significant advancement in assistive technology for the visually impaired [1]. The project has received substantial funding of €920,000 from the business community and organizations, as part of a larger €5.4 million NWO Open Technology Programme grant [1][3].
Revolutionary Wearable Technology
The research focuses on developing sophisticated wearable devices, including rings, bracelets, wristbands, and necklaces, constructed from liquid crystal polymers [1]. These materials are particularly innovative as they can dynamically change shape or move in response to external stimuli such as heat or electric current [1]. The technology aims to provide intuitive tactile feedback, helping users navigate complex situations like heavy traffic with greater confidence and independence [1].
Collaborative Research Effort
The project brings together two research groups within TU/e’s Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry [1]. Liu’s team is collaborating with the Macro-Organic Chemistry group led by Ghislaine Vantomme, combining their expertise to enhance the project’s potential [1]. As Liu states, ‘With the support of the OTP grant, we will recruit PhDs and postdoctoral researchers to advance the development of innovative materials and create a functional demonstrator designed to assist blind individuals in navigating daily life’ [1].
Broader Impact and Future Prospects
The project aligns with NWO’s mission of driving innovation in science with societal impact [3]. NWO, as one of the Netherlands’ primary science-funding bodies, invests over €650 million annually in research projects [3], and this particular grant demonstrates their commitment to developing practical solutions for accessibility challenges. The research team is now focused on creating a functional demonstrator that will help validate the technology’s effectiveness in real-world applications [1].