Dansense

For a digital design master’s project, we were tasked with developing a prototype to foster independence for aspiring athletes with disabilities. Dance has been an enriching experience since early human history and being visually impaired (VI) does not inhibit our innate motivations to dance. We chose to use dance as a way to encourage physical activity and enrich the lives of VI individuals, rethinking how dance cues are communicated.

Our research explored the motivations and challenges faced by VI individuals, including a review of existing dance adaptations and technologies. We interviewed Blinde Liefde voor Salsa, our primary stakeholder, and participated in empathy-building activities such as visiting the Muzieum in Nijmegen and attending a dance class blindfolded.

We ideated several concepts, but the haptic sole emerged as the most viable option, offering a balance of invisibility and feasibility. The concept was to use vibrations to guide foot movements, addressing the challenge of communicating dance cues without relying on visual mirroring. For prototyping, we created a footstool to house the components and used Arduino to control the vibration actuators. Testing revealed issues with vibration localisation and intensity. In response, we focused on optimising the motor layout to align with the foot's contours and redesigning the prototype through 3D modelling. Final refinements included gamification elements inspired by rhythm games and advanced vibration feedback for better cue anticipation.

Our concept effectively translated vibrations into dance steps and was well-received by our primary stakeholders. Unlike existing solutions, it does not look like an aid nor inhibit natural movement. We don’t believe this solution alone can teach dance, but it can serve as a gateway to dance schools by helping users build bodily awareness, rhythm, and confidence.