WeWalk – Obstacle detection hints

WeWalk – Obstacle detection hints

Problem

A customer using a WeWalk has problems with the obstacle detection feature on their WeWalk unit.

Applies to

  1. WeWalk 2

Resolution

Please find below information regarding the obstacle detection feature for the WeWalk hardware.

Purpose

The obstacle detection feature is designed to warn of any oncoming obstacles above chest height.  It is not designed to detect obstacles at ground level such as street bollards etc.  Standard cane technique should be used for harzards at ground level.  Obstacle detection works independently of the WeWalk app once you have made initial connection to the WeWalk app having activated WeWalk. 

Range

Obstacle detection has an adjustable range that can be adjusted from the WeWalk unit.
Intended orientation:  The obstacle detection is designed to work when the sensing is facing forwards and the WeWalk is held extended at an angle like a normal long cane for navigation with the the obstacle sensor is facing slightly upwards at an angle so that hazards at chest height and above are detected properly.  If the WeWalk is held upright the sensor will not detect the hazard and provide erroneous detection of obstructions lower down which is not its intended function.

Sensor orientation

Care should be taken the sensor always faces forwards as due to changes in grip may be off to one side or another which will make the obstruction detection less optimal.

Firmware

If problems continue with obstacle detection consider connecting to the WeWalk app to check for WeWalk firmware updates.  Also the WeWalk app itself on IOS or Android will receive updates which will help with the app and navigation GPS navigation features. 
Power:  The obstacle detection feature may not work when power is at very low levels eg. 3 or 5 percent.  Turn off WeWalk and connect to power for charge, disconnect when fully charged and check obstacle detection again. 

Cane tips and obstacle detection

In some rarer cases object detection may be influenced by the use of marshmallow or roller ball cane tips when used with vibration signalling.  WeWalk recommend using the standard explorer tip in case of thisi problem.

Cleaning

If you think the obstacle detection is not working you can also try cleaning the immediate area of the sensor.  When cleaning WeWalk generally only use soap and a damp cloth do not use bleach or other cleaning agents which may damage the unit. 

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