Startup Field of Vision Revolutionises Live Sports for Visually Impaired
Field of Vision, a Dublin-based start-up, is transforming the experience of live sporting events for visually impaired fans with its innovative technology. Founded in 2020 by David Deneher, Tim Farrelly, and Omar Salem, the company has developed a haptic response tablet that enhances accessibility at sports venues.
The company has created a handheld device that provides tactile feedback to users, allowing them to feel the action on the field. The tablet buzzes to indicate the ball's position and other key events during a game. “Over 100 million visually impaired sports fans worldwide rely entirely on commentary to experience live sports,” Deneher stated. “However, audio-described commentary often fails to convey the intensity of a live game”.
The concept emerged during conversations with visually impaired individuals, revealing a significant gap in the current offerings. Deneher noted that while audio descriptions are helpful, they do not capture the excitement and dynamics of live sports effectively. This insight led to the development of their device, which uses AI and computer vision to track the ball's movements in real time.
Field of Vision employs multiple cameras installed around stadiums to monitor game actions. This data is transmitted back to the tablet, where it activates haptic responses that inform users about passes, tackles, and goals through vibrations. The device includes a magnetic ball that mimics the ball's movements on a debossed pitch representation, providing an immersive experience.
Since its inception, Field of Vision has secured €250,000 in funding and formed valuable partnerships with various organisations. Their collaboration with Telstra allowed them to adapt their technology for Aussie Rules Football at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne. Deneher expressed gratitude for the support from Enterprise Ireland, which has facilitated connections with major rugby federations and opportunities to pitch their technology internationally.
The team has also worked closely with Bohemian FC in Dublin, conducting pilot programmes that have garnered positive feedback from visually impaired fans. “They’ve been phenomenal in allowing us to train our computer vision model at Dalymount Park,” Deneher remarked.
Field of Vision's mission extends beyond just enhancing sports experiences; it promotes inclusivity for all fans. The device is designed to be lightweight and portable, making it accessible for use in various sporting environments. As they refine their technology and expand into new markets, Field of Vision is committed to ensuring that visually impaired fans can enjoy live sports independently and fully engage with the action on the field. The company is paving the way for a more inclusive sporting experience through innovative technology that empowers visually impaired fans to feel every moment of the game.