Vision has a personal meaning to Frederick. He watched his father’s sight falter until he was completely blind at retirement. And as it turns out, Frederick’s own sight requires ongoing attention.
He’s directed his work as a scientist, researcher and inventor toward increasing mobility for children who are visually impaired.
Frederick has developed a system that signals when people or objects are near. His prototypes embed distance sensors in jackets which “see” in several directions. The wearer receives gentle vibrations when things move about him or her.
Each generation of jackets has benefited from increased computing power and miniaturization; which is both a blessing and a curse. Chips rapidly become obsolete and at times may require complex project redesigns.
The system is now being individualized — boys and girls have slightly different perceptual preferences when they’re young. Adding their parents’ voices to the prompts will soon follow.
Frederick is working toward “proximity jackets” that will eventually be affordable for all families
Like many theorists he combines crossover abilities. He spent years as a jewelry designer and is self-taught on all things computer thanks to the Internet. He has taught special-ed, high school and college students.
While Frederick is elated by his progress, he knows that years of lab work can lead scientists down a wrong path — restarts are common. For a man who loves nothing more than being told something is impossible, the challenge is a reward in itself.
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Pat, thanks for introducing this admirable, intelligent man. May he have success.
Couldn't agree with you more, Tom. Frederick's inspiration is the history of Helen Keller. To visit his website describing his mission go to https://www.hapticinsight.org/
You meet the most amazing people! I so appreciate that you take the time to discover an individual's unique gifts and sensibilities. Thank you for sharing your thoughtful observations when you introduce us to yet another one of your wonderful friends and acquaintances.
Thanks, Willie. You would enjoy meeting Frederick. Within just a few minutes of talking with him, it was obvious that his project would interest people. Fascinating the different challenges that people take on in life.
Just want to let you know how much I enjoy your blog. Especially appreciated the item on healthcare. Ann
Thanks, Ann. The things being done in the medical field by people like Frederick are amazing.
Lovely. I’m not sure how the praying mantis fits in, though is cute in the picture…
The research on praying mantis took place earlier in Frederick's career. He then applied what he had learned to the project of helping the vision impaired identify the closeness of things moving about them. Check out his site at: https://www.hapticinsight.org/