Breaking the Barriers to Mobility for the Visually Impaired with AI: Saffratech Develops Ultra-Low-Power, Lightweight Walking Support Device with 6-Hour Continuous Operation

Saffratech Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Miyagi Prefecture; Representative Director: Haruki Horikome) has initiated the development of a new device to support the safe walking of visually impaired individuals and is currently working on prototype production.

The device aims to support safe, vision-independent mobility by using AI-based image recognition technology to detect obstacles around the user and providing real-time voice notifications.

By overcoming the longstanding challenges of "battery life" and "weight" that have plagued previous walking support devices, Saffratech aims to realize a society where visually impaired individuals can move more freely and safely over longer distances.

Development Background: Solving the Battery Problem as a Trade-off of High Functionality

For visually impaired individuals, detecting obstacles during outdoor movement is a critical, life-impacting factor. While AI-equipped assistive devices have recently emerged, their high computational demands consume significant power, resulting in "heavy batteries" and "operation times lasting only a few hours," which pose major practical barriers.

Saffratech focuses on "sustained reliability," aiming to develop a "walking support device that can be trusted for extended use"—combining "over six hours of continuous operation" and "lightweight design"—suitable not only for daily use but also for evacuation during disasters and long-distance travel.

Product Overview and Differentiation: AI as the "Eyes," Ultra-Low-Power Technology as the "Stride"

1. Real-Time AI Obstacle Detection

Advanced image recognition algorithms instantly identify obstacles along the walking path and intuitively notify users via voice.

2. Industry-Leading Ultra-Low Power Consumption and Long Operation Time

Proprietary power optimization technology enables over six hours of continuous use, surpassing similar existing products. By eliminating the psychological anxiety of "battery depletion while outdoors," the device supports freer and more secure walking. The product incorporates NTT Innovative Devices Corporation's low-power AI LSI.

Prototype Completion and Usage Imagery

3. Stress-Free Ultra-Lightweight Design

The company is developing an extremely lightweight enclosure by minimizing components to reduce physical strain on the neck and body during prolonged wear.

Future Development: Social Implementation Through Proof-of-Concept Trials

Currently in the mockup verification phase, the company plans to advance commercialization through the following steps:

Joint Proof-of-Concept Trials with Users and Support Organizations: Collect feedback from real-world walking environments.

UI/UX Optimization: Develop a more audible and less fatiguing voice interface based on user feedback.

Establishing partnerships aimed at mass production.

Visual Representation of Hazards for Visually Impaired Individuals and Device Usage

About Saffratech Co., Ltd.

Saffratech Co., Ltd. aims to be a sustainable growth-oriented company that delivers value exceeding customer expectations and addresses their needs, guided by the philosophy of "honestly creating value and pursuing solutions together with customers."

The company views technology not merely as a "tool," but as a means to expand human "freedom," and is committed to developing solutions that remove societal barriers.

[Company Overview]

Company Name: Saffratech Co., Ltd.

Headquarters: 1-4-5 Nishiki-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture 980-0012 (Satellite office in Osaka)

Representative Director: Haruki Horikome

Business Activities: Hardware business, mobile sales business, marriage counseling service

Website: https://safflow-techno.com