Seeing Independence Clearly: The WS1 and Within Sight’s

Closing The Gap Solutions e-Magazine, Dec 2024 / Janurary 2025 Volume 43, #3 - Seeing Independence Clearly: The WS1 and Within Sight’s Visionary Journey by Richard Teynor

blind / low vision

Seeing Independence Clearly: The WS1 and Within Sight’s Visionary Journey

Easily changing the position of the articulated arm and camera rotation of the WS1 allows the user to magnify items and still be hands free. The receiver module in the foreground is all that is needed to plug into your HDMI monitor or TV for wireless magnification.

Summary: Richard Teynor founder and CEO of Within Sight LLC. discusses the inspiration behind Within Sight’s WS1 came from a deeply personal place—a desire to help his mother maintain her independence as she battled AMD. He discusses the challenge of designing a simple magnification device utilizing the latest technology for people that have age related macular degeneration and low vision. He discusses the needs and wants of this group of people and explains how he arrived at the design of the WS1

RICHARD TEYNOR is the founder and CEO of Within Sight LLC. He is experienced in Product Design, Machine Design, and Automation. He earned an advanced degree in Industrial Design with emphasis on ergonomics, product design and design engineering. He has years of experience in higher education teaching and mentoring engineering, design and business students. He emphasized experiential learning focusing on research and universal design in his teaching. The inspiration behind Within Sight’s WS1 came from a deeply personal place—a desire to help his mother maintain her independence as she battled AMD.

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BRINGING FOCUS TO INDEPENDENCE: A NEW PERSPECTIVE ON EVERYDAY LIFE Imagine trying to navigate your daily life with a permanent fog in your vision—everything is just slightly out of reach, not quite clear enough to fully grasp. This is the reality for millions of people living with Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) or other forms of low vision. Tasks that once seemed mundane, like reading a recipe card, checking the expiration date on a carton of milk, or setting the right temperature on the oven, become monumental challenges. It’s as if the world has become an intri- cate puzzle, and the pieces are forever shifting. But what if there was a way to bring that puzzle into focus, piece by piece, until the whole picture became clear again? “The right tool for the job” is the old saying that can be applied to assistive devices for those in need. Use the proper tool for the task at hand was the design challenge for people with AMD and low vision. The task at hand was to design an assistive device that could empower visually challenged people to keep their independence. Within Sight’s approach is design where innova- tion meets empathy, and where tools are designed not just to function, but to transform lives. At WithinSight LLC, we believe that the right tool can illuminate the path to independence, and we’ve made it our mission to create that tool for those whose vi- sion has become obscured by AMD and low vision. Our journey led us to develop the WS1, a device that doesn’t just aid sight—it empowers independence. A CLOSER LOOK AT AMD: UNDERSTANDING THE IMPACT To understand the importance of assistive technology like the WS1, it’s essential to grasp the scope of the challenges posed by AMD and low vision. According to the National Institutes of Health, approximately 20 million Americans aged 40 and over are affected by AMD. This condition primarily impacts the elder- ly, with the prevalence skyrocketing among those aged 80 and above, where 35% of individuals experience some degree of vi- sion loss due to AMD. But statistics can only tell part of the story. The real impact of AMD is felt in the day-to-day struggles of those living with it. Imagine a grandmother who can no longer read her favor- ite books or a grandfather who struggles to see the faces of his grandchildren. The emotional toll of losing the ability to engage with the world in the way one is accustomed to can be profound. That’s why assistive devices are more than just tools—they’re lifelines, offering a way to reconnect with the world and regain a sense of self-sufficiency. SHINING A LIGHT ON THE PROBLEM: THE BIRTH OF WITHINSIGHT The inspiration behind WithinSight’s WS1 came from a deeply personal place—a desire to help my mother maintain her inde- pendence as she battled AMD. My mother has always been the

heart of our family, especially in the kitchen, where she spent countless hours crafting meals and baking treats. But as her macular degeneration progressed, the tools she had relied on for years, like her old tech desktop magnifier, were no longer up to the task. Watching her struggle to read recipes or adjust the oven’s temperature was heartbreaking. It was clear that she needed something more—a device that could help her see clearly and continue doing what she loved without relying on others. After my father passed away, my mother’s vision struggles became even more pronounced. Without her partner by her side who were her eyes, the loss of her sight became more than a physical challenge—it was an emotional burden as well. She was frustrated, feeling as though her independence was slip- ping away. It was then that I knew I had to do something. I set out to create a device that would restore her ability to see clearly and, with it, her confidence and autonomy. THROUGH MY MOTHER’S EYES: DESIGNING FOR REAL NEEDS Designing the WS1 was a journey that began by stepping into my mother’s shoes—or rather, by seeing through her eyes. Peo- ple with AMD often experience difficulty when trying to focus di- rectly on an object, as central vision is typically the first be affect- ed. However, peripheral vision can sometimes provide a way to navigate the world. For my mother, this meant she needed large, high-contrast text displayed at a distance that she could comfort- ably see without straining her remaining vision. People with AMD have a difficult time seeing when looking directly at something. Many see their central vison as being out of focus or blurry while others see a gray or dark area. They may also see from their peripheral vision depending on the severity of AMD. To read things from ones peripheral vision, the items need to be magnified and have good contrast and brightness. My mother’s particular need for reading text was for her to be within a few feet of a monitor and the text needed to be at least 3 to 4 inches in height on the screen. But her needs didn’t stop at just the visual aspects. My mother, like many seniors, isn’t comfortable with computers, complicat- ed software, or the internet. She wanted something simple—no bells and whistles, no steep learning curve, just a straightforward device that she could use intuitively. The WS1 needed to be dura- ble enough to withstand the rigors of a kitchen environment but also user-friendly enough to operate without a manual. FROM CONCEPT TO REALITY: BUILDING THE FIRST WS1 PROTOTYPE The first step in bringing the WS1 to life was creating a pro- totype that prioritized simplicity and usability. The goal was to make the technology work for the user, not the user trying to figure out how to use a device. We started by combining a cam- era with a wireless receiver, both powered by a powerful sin-

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worked well, but as she used the WS1, it became clear that there was room for improvement. My mother’s feedback, along with input from other seniors in our focus groups, was invaluable in refining the WS1. These focus group members, many of whom used the WS1 to view photos and videos of their grandchildren, provided insights that helped us make the device even more us- er-friendly and effective. ENHANCING THE VISION: ITERATING ON THE DESIGN With each iteration, the WS1 became more refined, incorpo- rating feedback from real users to address their specific needs. For example, we learned that digital zooming, while convenient, often degraded image quality. Instead, we opted for an optical zoom system, where users could adjust the camera’s physical distance from an object to achieve the desired level of magnifi- cation. This approach maintained the clarity of the image, even at higher levels of zoom. Another important improvement was the incorporation of laser and edge detection technology to ensure a crisp, clear fo- cus every time. This feature, combined with an intuitive manual focus button, gave users the flexibility to adjust the image as needed without introducing complexity. LED lights were also added to the system to enhance visibility in low-light situa- tions—a common issue in home environments. A CLOSER LOOK: THE WS1’S FEATURES AND FUNCTIONALITY So what exactly does the WS1 bring to the table? At its core, the WS1 is a wireless, self-focusing camera system that broad- casts to a receiver, which can be plugged into any HDMI-com- patible monitor or TV. With the ability to magnify images up to 40X, the WS1 offers powerful visual enhancement in a plug-and- play package. No software installation is required, no internet connection is needed, and there are no tangled wires to deal with—just a straightforward, user-friendly device. The system excels at focusing on rounded or oddly shaped objects as long as the object is sitting motionless. If the auto- matic focus needs a little adjustment, users can simply press a large, easy-to-find button to manually refocus the image. The camera also includes LED lights that can be turned on with an- other large button, providing extra brightness in dimly lit envi- ronments. The WS1 camera can broadcast HDMI video to the receiver approximately 30 foot line of sight distance if needed. In use the camera module can be placed on any flat surface. The articulated arm has a reach of approximately 18 inches. The camera unit weighs about 2.6 lbs. The base is weighted so the camera assembly does not tip over at full extension of the artic- ulated arm. The articulated arm joints incorporates friction hing- es to hold the arm steady in any configuration. The battery is a powerful 10 amp lithium rechargeable battery. One of the WS1’s standout features is its battery life. The cam- era is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that can

The WS1 can magnify up to 40X for checking prescription and medication.

gle-board computer. This setup allowed the WS1 to function as a standalone system, eliminating the need for external Wi-Fi or a computer. The camera is mounted on an articulated arm, which could be adjusted to capture the best possible angle, while the receiver connected to any HDMI monitor or TV. For my mother’s setup, we chose an older 46-inch TV, which we mounted on a blank wall in her kitchen. The initial system

The WS1 is at home in the kitchen helping read recipe cards and books, measuring ingredients, and checking controls for oven and kitchen appliances.

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last up to six hours on a single charge, ensuring that users can rely on the device for extended periods without worrying about power. The system also incorporates an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), meaning that even if the camera is unplugged during use, it will continue to operate without interruption. SEEING IS BELIEVING: THE WS1 IN ACTION Let’s take a closer look at how the WS1 can transform every- day tasks. For example: you’re in the kitchen, ready to bake a cake. The first step is reading the recipe, which is printed in tiny, barely legible text. With the WS1, all you need to do is place the recipe card under the camera, the text is magnified on the large screen, making it easy to read. The recipe card or instructions can be zoomed in to by adjusting the articulated arm and cam- era closer to view the smaller print. Next the ingredients, utensils and pans are gathered. Each ingredient is then viewed to verify correct amount or expiration date.

When it’s time to set the oven temperature, you can carry the camera over to the stove, adjust the articulated arm to get the best view of the control panel, and make sure the oven controls and time is set correctly. The WS1’s versatility doesn’t stop in the kitchen—it’s just as useful for personal grooming, reading mail, reading prescription bottles, and reading for pleasure, tying flies for fishing, working on hobbies like knitting or needlepoint, and even playing board games. But the WS1 isn’t just about convenience; it’s about reclaim- ing independence. For many people with AMD or low vision, the ability to perform these everyday tasks without assistance is a game-changer. The WS1 empowers users to take control of their lives, restoring a sense of autonomy that might otherwise have been lost. The WS1 can be used by any age group that has low vision or AMD. There is minimal training if any to use the system. The only controls are using one switch and two buttons and the ability to

The monitor size used with the WS1 depends on the user’s needs. Any HDMI monitor or TV can be used, a smart TV is not necessary. This is a simple guideline when the WS1 is at its max zoom. See the features / guidelines and how to use the WS1 from the downloadable user manual from the website.

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move the camera head to position. The imbedded technology keeps the operation of the WS1 simple and intuitive. BEYOND THE BASICS: EXPANDING THE WS1’S CAPABILITIES While the WS1 is designed to be a standalone system, its func- tionality doesn’t end there. For those who want to connect the WS1 to a computer, the device offers even more possibilities. By using an HDMI-to-USB converter, the WS1 can be plugged into a computer’s USB port, allowing it to function as a high-quality USB camera. This opens the door to a wide range of addition- al applications, from remote meetings and distance learning to object character recognition (OCR), video capture, security mon- itoring, and text-to-speech software. This added flexibility makes the WS1 a valuable tool not just for individuals, but for organizations as well. Schools, libraries, and community centers can all benefit from the WS1’s capabili- ties, offering it as a resource for people with low vision who need help accessing printed materials or participating in digital activ- ities. THE AT ACT: A VISIONARY RESOURCE FOR ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY An important resource for individuals with disabilities, in- cluding those with low vision, is the Assistive Technology Act of 1998/2004. This legislation provides funding for each U.S. state and territory to offer services to people with disabilities, includ- ing access to assistive technology. One of the key components of the AT Act is the loaning library, which allows individuals to borrow devices like the WS1 for a set period of time. This gives them the opportunity to evaluate whether the device meets their needs before making a purchase. For people with AMD or low vision, the ability to try out de- vices like the WS1 through the AT Act’s loaning library can make all the difference in maintaining their independence and quali- ty of life. The Within Sight WS1 is available to try from many of

Items can be oddly shaped and still very readable using the WS1.

the AT Act programs. Check with your states or territory’s AT Act program to see if the WS1 and other potentially useful devices are available to evaluate. https://www.at3center.net/state-at- programs FUNDING THE FUTURE: HOW TO PAY FOR A WS1 The WS1 is an investment in independence, priced at $3,500. This cost includes the wireless autofocus magnification camera, the receiver module, HDMI to USB convertor, HDMI cable, and power adapters, as well as a 2-year warranty. For many, finding funding for assistive technology can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are several resources available to help cover the cost of devices like the WS1. The process varies by state, so it’s important to check with your local Department of Developmental Disabilities, the Social Security Administra- tion, or Veterans Affairs. While Medicare typically covers durable goods like wheelchairs, it does not extend to video magnifica- tion devices. However, other state-specific programs and grants may be available to help offset the cost. OUR VISION FOR THE FUTURE: A CLEAR MISSION At WithinSight, our mission is simple but profound: to har- ness the latest technology in a way that is intuitive, user-friendly, and designed to meet the needs of people with low vision and AMD. We founded WithinSight with a deep sense of compassion and a commitment to improving the lives of those who strug- gle with vision loss. Our vision for the WS1 Visual Assistant is to make it a reliable, everyday companion that helps users live their lives with confidence and independence.

The WS1 from WithinSight: Visual Assistive Technology https://vimeo.com/869746098

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We’re not just about creating technology—we’re about cre- ating solutions that enhance the human experience. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to live independently, and we’re dedicated to making that a reality for as many people as possible. The WS1 is just the beginning of our journey. As we continue to innovate and improve our products, we’ll keep our focus on what matters most: helping people see clearly and live fully. If you’re interested in learning more about the WS1 or any of our other products, we invite you to visit the WithinSight web- site. There, you can watch our video, explore the user manual, and find out how the WS1 can fit into your life. You can also reach out directly by emailing rich.teynor@withinsightnow.com. We’re here to help you bring your world back into focus. https://www.withinsightnow.com/

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