This study introduces an adaptive haptic feedback belt designed to improve situational awareness and information delivery in time-critical human machine interfaces (HMIs), with a specific focus on aiding visually impaired individuals. By providing tactile feedback through four vibration motors corresponding to angular sectors around the user’s body, the belt shifts spatial information into intuitive, real-time haptic cues. The system dynamically adjusts vibration intensity based on the proximity of objects, allowing users to detect and locate obstacles in their environment effectively. Initial tests show the device’s ability to communicate crucial spatial information non-visually, offering a promising assistive technology for navigation and obstacle avoidance. The belt’s design combines an Arduino-based control system with custom-printed circuit boards (PCBs) and eccentric rotating mass motors (ERMs), optimized for comfort and durability. A 3D-printed mount system secures the motors while providing even vibration distribution. To validate its effectiveness, the prototype was tested in controlled experimental setups, achieving high accuracy in object detection and user satisfaction with comfort and usability. Future applications include integrating the belt into a virtual reality (VR) simulation to train the system for real-world object prioritization using machine learning. By improving situational awareness, the device aims to assist visually impaired users in navigating environments and avoiding obstacles. Subsequent real-world testing hopes to refine this device further, advancing the development of wearable assistive technologies.

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