Module 2: Finding a target

Section 18 of 41

Until the advanced line-of-sight target feature is available, use the “point and click” technique to approach all targets. Point your body towards the desired target, align Glide with your body, and click the Glide button to confirm travel alignment to that target.

Tip: Anytime you are looking for something such as a door, stairway, or upcoming turn, slowing your pace will grly reduce your chance of missing the target.

Doors

Notice that Glide reacts to closed doors as an obstacle. If you want to go through a closed door, set your alignment towards that door by aiming your knuckles/Glide’s cameras towards it and tapping the Glide button. Walk forward slowly, when you feel Glide stop, bring the handle vertical so Glide is in standby while you reach forward with your free hand to locate the door handle. If the handle is on the same side as your Glide grip, you may need to switch hands while walking through the door frame. If the door pulls towards you, you may need to sidestep or back up with Glide as you pull the door open towards you. If the door pushes away from you, simply align Glide so it is facing through the doorway, tilt it into ready position and walk forward. If Glide is not aligned properly it may apply the brakes, showing you the door frame as an obstacle. One more option is to pull Glide behind you through the doorway (like a rolling suitcase) then set it in front of you to continue forward.

Automatic, single, double, and revolving doors are covered in Level 4: Advanced Indoor Skills.

Ascending stairs

When you approach stairs going up, Glide will brake, indicating there is an obstacle ahead. Tilt the device upright into standby and stay behind Glide while you use your free hand to search for the handrail. You may need to switch your grip hand while you locate and use the handrail. If you do not find the steps within reach, slowly nudge Glide forward and try again. With one hand on the handrail for support and guidance, lift Glide by the handle or stem as you proceed up the stairs. Another option is to face Glide backwards with the cameras and kickstand facing 6 o’clock, grip the handle and pull it up the stairs behind you like a rolling suitcase. When the handrail levels out and there are no more stairs, set Glide down, check your alignment and continue walking. If there is no handrail, it may be best to locate a ramp, elevator, escalator, or use your white cane to detect each step as you ascend to the top of the staircase.

Descending stairs

When you approach descending stairs, Glide will apply the brakes indicating there is a drop-off ahead. Tilt the device upright into standby position and stay behind Glide while you use your free hand to search for the handrail. You may need to switch your grip hand while you locate and use the handrail. If you do not find the steps within reach, slowly nudge Glide forward and try again. With one hand on the handrail for support and guidance, lift Glide by the handle or stem as you proceed down the stairs. Alternatively, you can increase the stem length and gently roll Glide down each step on its wheels. If you choose this method, understand that Glide is not guiding you. When the handrail levels out and there are no more stairs, set Glide down, check your alignment and continue walking. If there is no handrail, it is safest to locate a ramp, elevator, escalator, or use your white cane to detect each step as you descend to the bottom of the staircase.

Practice indoors

Continue to apply all these skills while walking around in your home. Always begin with proper position and alignment. Walk through each room and identify familiar obstacles such as walls, furniture, and appliances using Glide. Notice how your pace and position change when you are in a wide-open space versus a more narrow area. Stay behind your hand.