WeWALK CAN-700-000-0054 Smart Cane User Manual
- June 3, 2024
- WeWALK
Table of Contents
- WeWALK CAN-700-000-0054 Smart Cane User
- FEATURES AT A GLANCE
- WHAT’S INSIDE THE BOX?
- GETTING STARTED
- FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- SAFETY INFORMATION
- TROUBLESHOOTING
- PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
- WARRANTY CONDITIONS
- WARRANTY CERTIFICATE
- References
- Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
- Download This Manual (PDF format)
WeWALK CAN-700-000-0054 Smart Cane User
FEATURES AT A GLANCE
- DETECT OBSTACLES: WeWALK detects obstacles at head and chest level (such as low hanging tree branches and light poles) with its onboard ultrasonic sensor, warning you through vibrations.
- NAVIGATE ANYWHERE: Get accessible turn-by-turn guidance and multimodal navigation that allows you to choose from various route options such as walking, pu
- EX P L O R E AROUND YOU: Quickly locate, save, and navigate to new places around you.
- ACCESS PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION: Learn about nearby stops, timetables, and receive notifications when you arrive at your stop.
- CONTROL WITH VOICE ASSISTANT (BETA): Use Voice Assistant to control WeWALK features using voice commands. Please note that Voice Assistant is only available in English and Turkish at this time
WHAT’S INSIDE THE BOX?
- WeWALK’s smart handle
- Folding white cane (with an adaptor screw to attach the handle)
- USB Cable
- Waterproof leather case
- Earphones
- A quick start guide in braille
- User manual
- Wrist strap
COMPONENTS OF THE WeWALK SMARTCANE
- Wrist strap hole
- Soft-touch grip
- Tactile buttons
- Touchpad
- Ultrasonic sensor
- Front LED
- White cane adaptor
- Cane west
- Micro USB input
- Microphone
- Power button
- Speaker
ULTRASONIC SENSOR
Your WeWALK uses an ultrasonic system to detect obstacles. Do not press on the ultrasonic sensor positioned at the front of the handle or try to manipulate it in any way. Any damage to this sensor may cause the product to perform poorly
TACTILE BUTTONS
When WeWALK is switched on and obstacles are detected, the two buttons will vibrate. It is important that you do not press hard on the buttons as this will reduce the vibration intensity. You should experiment with positioning your hands to get maximum sensitivity. The wearing of thick gloves is not recommended as this will also reduce the intensity of vibration feedback
SPEAKER AND MICROPHONE
WeWALK has a speaker and microphone for audio feedback and voice commands
POWER BUTTON
Use the power button to turn the WeWALK on or off
TOUCHPAD
The touchpad works by sensing your finger movements and pressure. The touchpad is used to control the connected WeWALK smartphone app. Usage with gloves is not recommended as this may decrease the performance of the touchpad.
FRONT LED
The front LED is used to improve your visibility to others in the dark and can be enabled or disabled as required. Additionally, the LED can be used as a visual reference to show that WeWALK is turned on
MICRO USB INPUT
The micro USB input is used to charge the battery of your WeWALK device.
GETTING STARTED
CHARGE YOUR DEVICE:
Charge the WeWALK device for about 2 hours to ensure that you get started with
a full charge. To charge WeWALK, plug the supplied cable’s micro USB end into
the micro USB input on the cane. Plug the USB end of the cable into the USB
input on the power adapter. Then, plug the adapter into the mains socket. If
there is not a suitable adaptor for your country inside the box, you can use
any USB adaptor or micro USB charger (such as a smartphone charger) to charge
WeWALK.
ATTACH THE DEVICE TO THE CANE
Position the WeWALK device on top of the white cane with the adaptor, press
down and rotate clockwise until tight, as if tightening a screw.
DOWNLOAD THE WEWALK APP
To get started, download the WeWALK app from the App Store or Play Store. You
can also use this link: www.wewalk.io/app
LOW VISION SETTINGS
In the WeWALK app, customize settings like background color and text size to
suit your accessibility preferences
USE THE SERVICES THAT WEWALK OFFERS
WeWALK app for the first time, you will be asked to grant permission for
notification, Bluetooth, and location access. This will appear as a dialog
box. We recommend enabling all of them to benefit from all features.
SIGN UP IN THE APP
We will use the information you provide to learn your preferences for WeWALK
smartcane and to keep you updated on the latest improvements. This is optional
and none of your data will be shared with any other parties
SWITCH ON WEWALK
To switch your WeWALK on or off, press the power button and hold it down until
the cane vibrates and plays the turning on-off sound. The power button is
located underneath the device. Refer to the Components of the WeWALK section
to check the exact position of this button.
CONNECT YOUR WEWALK SMARTCANE TO YOUR SMARTPHONE
a. Switch on WeWALK. WeWALK stays in pairing mode for 120 seconds and the LED
blinks during this period. After this period, the device goes into standby
mode and will need to be switched off and on again to pair
Ensure your smartphone’s Bluetooth is enabled. Then, launch the app and establish the Bluetooth connection with the WeWALK device by tapping on the “Connect WeWALK” button.
You will hear a sound after a successful connection
BEGIN WITH THE “TRAINING MODE
We designed a training mode for you to learn how to use WeWALK. With this training, you will be able to practice using and holding WeWALK smartcane. Access the Tutorials tab in our app to access audio and written tutorials which will help you understand all the features of your WeWALK
HOLDING AND USING THE WeWALK SMARTCANE
WeWALK should be held and used using regular cane technique and is not a replacement for good cane technique. WeWALK should be held in the ‘handshake’ hand position with the rounder part of the device sitting in the palm of the hand, and the thumb resting on the tactile buttons on top of the device. The tactile buttons, touchpad, and ultrasonic sensor should face forward and always be on top
WALKING WITH WEWALK
The traditional white cane is used by moving the cane from side to side in a tapping or sliding motion where the next footstep will fall. This ensures that obstacles can be detected in the user’s immediate vicinity by utilizing the tip of the cane to touch the obstacle. Additional obstacle detection is obtained via the ultrasonic sensors incorporated into the handle, thus giving more advanced warning to the user of obstacles in their path and between head and waist level
When using WeWALK, it is imperative to use traditional white cane skills especially for locating drops such as curbs and steps, or tactile paving. Before you start using WeWALK, experiment with the various obstacle detection range options to find out the limits and capabilities of the product. Choose the length of the white cane according to your height.
WeWALK is designed to detect the obstacles between your head and waist level, so the obstacles in this range should be detected at a distance of at least 1 meter before hitting the obstacle. For example, a low-hanging sign is at a height of 170 cm and the user is 175 cm tall, so they might hit the obstacle. The green area indicates the detection area, at these distances the smartcane vibrates and warns the user about the obstacle
When your WeWALK gives you an obstacle warning during normal use, you can
gently swipe your device to the left and right to detect exactly where the
obstacle is located, how wide the obstacle is and where the obstacle stops
blocking your path. When you move your WeWALK to the right and left, you can
perceive the objects that are in front of you and you can confirm the accuracy
of the obstacle detection signal.
In the unlikely event that WeWALK’s electronics fail while you are out, you
will still be able to use it as a traditional white cane to reach your
destination
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I fold and collapse my WeWALK smartcane like my regular cane
Yes, you can also attach the supplied wrist strap to help keep the cane in folded position and to help with transport it. As with regular cane technique, we do not recommend using WeWALK to walk with the wrist strap around your wrist. If the cane were to suddenly collide with an obstacle, this may exert excess force on your wrist.
- Thread the thin loop of string through the wrist strap attachment hole.
- After the loop is fully threaded, open it and pass the strap handle through the loop. Pull the remainder of the strap handle upwards to secure the wrist strap to the unit.
- You can fold the cane and use the wrist strap of your WeWALK to bind them together. Be careful when folding/unfolding the cane because of the tension in the elastic cord
Are there any obstacles/objects that WeWALK cannot detect?
It is not possible for WeWALK’s ultrasonic sensor to detect drops at ground
level such as stairs, curbs, and holes. It is therefore important to maintain
good traditional cane skills when using WeWALK to locate drops. WeWALK may not
detect soft fabrics or small obstacles at the limit of the range setting.
WeWALK works best with hard surfaces as these provide a stronger ultrasonic
echo. WeWALK can detect objects at a distance of between 80 and 165 cm from
the ultrasonic sensor.
Is WeWALK suitable for use in rainy weather?
Heavy or torrential rain will stop your WeWALK from working properly and
should be avoided. Prolonged or repeated exposure to water or heavy rain must
be prevented as it may cause permanent water-damage to your WeWALK. If you are
out with your WeWALK and are caught in heavy rain, you should immediately
switch the cane off and cover it to protect it from heavy rain. You can
continue to use the WeWALK as a traditional white cane to navigate during the
rain, but the obstacle detection functions will not be available whilst the
device is covered. You can remove the cover, switch on your WeWALK and
continue your journey as normal once the rain stops. If your cane does get
wet, allow it to dry naturally in the open air at room temperature.
Which smartphones do you support?
The WeWALK App Runs on Android and iOS-based smartphones. Android based
devices should have Android version 5.0 and above, iOS devices should have iOS
version 10 and above.
Which languages are available?
WeWALK supports the following languages: Turkish, English, Spanish, French,
Arabic, Italian Russian, German, Romanian, and Portuguese. Other languages
will be added with updates. When a new language package is released, WeWALK
will be updated over wireless connection via the mobile application.
What do the WeWALK smartcane sounds mean?
You can listen to all the WeWALK sounds and learn what they mean in the WeWALK
app.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How can I manage WeWALK’s services through the cane? What is the voice menu? The voice menu allows you to use many of WeWALK’s functions such as starting navigation and changing obstacle detection distance without touching your phone. The voice menu can only be used when WeWALK is connected to your phone. To access it, simply double- tap WeWALK’s touchpad. You can then swipe left or right on the touchpad to access different settings. To enter or select a setting, double tap the touchpad again. To go back or exit the voice menu, swipe the touchpad forward (swipe away from you and towards the ground).
How can I start navigation through the smartcane?
You can easily get navigation to previously saved locations via the voice
menu. Double-tap on WeWALK’s touchpad to open the voice menu then double tap
on My Places to access your saved locations. Swipe through your saved
locations and double tap on a saved location to navigate there
How do I clean and maintain my WeWALK?
Do not leave your smartcane in extremely low or high temperatures as this
reduces the lifespan of its electronic components. Handle your smartcane with
care and do not throw it around or shake it aggressively, otherwise internal
circuit boards may be damaged.
Turn the device off before cleaning and use a damp and anti-static cloth. Do
not use chemical agents such as detergents.
Do not attempt to modify or disassemble your product. If the internal seal is
damaged or wet, the manufacturer’s quality assurance may not be warranted by
the after-sales service provider even if your product is still under the
warranty period.
What should I do if my white cane part is worn out or broken?
You can replace the damaged cane with any white cane that is compatible with our adaptors
- Unscrew and remove the WeWALK device from the old cane.
- Untie the knot in the elastic cord holding the adaptor to the old cane.
- On the new cane, untie the knot in the elastic chord and remove the cane’s existing rubber handle. Replace this with the adaptor by passing both ends of the elastic cord through the adaptor and tying a knot to secure it. You can cut the rest of the cord off if necessary but do leave some cord past the knot to allow for ease of untying in the future.
- Attach WeWALK to the new cane with the adaptor
SAFETY INFORMATION
GENERAL SAFETY
- The product must be charged with a 5V-1A adapter having IEC/EN 60950-1 approval.
- The instructions and warnings that the product bears on the labels attached to the product and packaging must be strictly followed.
- Do not expose the product to liquids such as water. If liquids are leaked into the product it may cause malfunction in the product or produce electric shock. In this case turn the device off immediately and consult the authorized service center for inspection and/or repair.
- Keep the product away from excessive heat sources.
- In order to prevent the risk of electric shock disconnect the product from the power source in extreme weather (storms, lightning, etc.).
- Do not drop the product or place any other objects on the product.
- To avoid danger, keep plastic bags out of the reach of infants and pets.
OPERATIONAL SAFETY
- This product must not replace good orientation and mobility skills. This product only notifies you about the obstacles between the head and waist level of your body. Please do not use the product except for its intended use.
- Before using WeWALK, the user should receive training on the limits/capabilities of the white cane.
- WeWALK must be used with a white cane with the proper alignment of the length according to the height of the user. The length of the cane should be at least the same as chest level or higher.
- Take care when unpacking as the folded sections of the white cane are held together under tension by an elastic bungee in a similar manner to a traditional white cane, and they will snap together when unfolded.
- In order to avoid malfunctions, use only recommended accessories.
- A round shaped and mesh covered ultrasonic sensor is posted at the front of the handle. Do not press on it or try to manipulate it in anyway. Any damage to the sensor may cause the product to perform poorly.
- Do not use the product in humid or rainy weather conditions which could deteriorate the performance of the ultrasonic sensor and might cause a malfunction.
- Some obstacles may not reflect ultrasonic waves and therefore may not be detected by WeWALK. The object must have a strong ultrasonic echo back to the sensor to be detected. Large targets such as a liquid surface in a tank are detected at the maximum range. Curved objects or sound absorbing materials such as fabrics reflect less energy directly back to the sensor. Granular materials may absorb sound energy from the sensor due to surface variation and/or angle of repose.
- Optimum operating temperatures are between 0 and 40 degrees Celsius.
- Ultrasonic functionality should be regularly tested to ensure correct functionality.
- Use this product at an altitude of less than 2000 meters above sea level.
BATTERY SAFETY
The device has an embedded, non-user-replaceable battery. If your device no longer works properly, refer to an authorized service provider for battery replacement or contact technical support. Do not leave the device charging for extended periods of time
MAINTENANCE
Do not attempt to repair or modify the device yourself or attempt any
servicing unless it is in any instructional document prepared by the technical
division of the manufacturer. The repair and servicing must be carried out by
technical personnel only. Otherwise, your warranty may become void and you may
risk your health or your product.
When one or more of the below-listed circumstances occur, do not continue to
operate the device, turn it off and refer to the nearest authorized service
provider
- If the product is dropped or its case is damaged.
- If the performance of the product has changed or needs to be repaired.
- If the product does not operate properly as described in the operating instructions.
- If a liquid was spilled on the product or when objects have fallen into the product.
- If the product has been exposed to rain or water.
- If an unexpected mechanical noise is coming from the product
FORESEEABLE MISUSE
Usage except ‘intended use’ can be unsafe. The following improper usage can inhibit the performance and safe operation of WeWALK
- Untrained usage
- Using without a white cane
- Misalignment of the length of the white cane
- Charging with an adaptor of output greater than 5V 1A and/or no IEC/EN 60950-1 approval
- Using under heavy rain
- Using while running
- Holding WeWALK in the wrong position
LIABILITY LIMITATION
Manufacturing company does not assume any responsibility for damages and injuries that may occur due to not observing the instructions in this user manual, using the device outside its intended use, unauthorized repairs, unauthorized modifications on the device and using spare parts not approved by the manufacturer
INTENDED USE
The WeWALK smartcane helps visually impaired people walk more confidently for
non- commercial use. This product includes a white cane and a control center
that communicates with the companion smartphone application. It can direct the
user via an array of sensor systems such as vibration motors and ultrasonic
sensors.
This product is equipped with commercially available components. It is
designed to provide comfort and ease of use which creates a preferable
advantage compared to the legacy white cane design. In case there is a problem
with the device, the user has the option to use the WeWALK smartcane as a
legacy white cane. Thus, the design still has the regular legacy white cane
functionality.
The device contains navigation functionality not only with its built-in
compass but also with its special interactive navigation software for visually
impaired people on mobile devices which wirelessly connect with the WeWALK
smartcane. Compass calibration should be done prior to using the navigation
functionality. The software structure is constructed in the manner of an open
platform which promotes continuous software development. Therefore, it is
designed as a wearable product which is an add-on of mobile phones for
visually impaired people.
COUNTRY RESTRICTIONS
This device is intended for home and use in all EU countries (and other
countries following the relevant EU directive) without any limitation except
for the countries mentioned below.
The requirements for any country may change at any time. It’s recommended that
user checks with local authorities for the current status of their national
regulations for both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz wireless LAN’s
TROUBLESHOOTING
When you detect an abnormal condition on your device, you may try to resolve the issue as per the descriptions specified.
TROUBLE | POSSIBLE CAUSES | SOLUTION |
---|---|---|
Does not open | The battery may be exhausted | Charge the product. |
The button may not have been pressed long enough | Press long to the button |
i.e. more than 3 seconds.
Does not connect to the smart phone| May not be in pairing mode| The product
stays in pairing mode for 120 seconds when first turned on. A connection is
required within the specified time.|
The phone ID may not be visible| Select your phone’s visibility from the
setting menu.|
Can not detect obstacle
| Ultrasonic feature may be off| See the Ultrasonic Activation / Deactivation
section in the Touch Panel title in the manual.
It may not be in the right grip| Look at the title of Holding Your WeWALK in
the manual.
Some surface types may be unstable| See the FAQ in the manual.
It’s not charging
| The adapter may not have a plug installed| Make sure the plug is plugged
into a power source.
There may not be electricity at the plug| Make sure there is electricity at
the plug.
The device does not respond to any commands| The device’s software may
belocked.| Switch offand on againwith the On/ Off button.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS
Flash Memory | 16Mbit |
---|---|
Ultrasonic Sensor | 16mm open enclosure, 40kHz, directivity 55° |
Touchpad | Multi-touch custom module |
Vibration Motors | Left and Right vibrating buttons |
Battery | 1000mAh Li-ion with on package protection circuit |
Battery Charger | Battery Charger |
Speaker | Class D power amplifier + 0.5W smartphone speaker |
Microphone | MEMS digital microphone |
Gyro, Compass
| 3Axis Gyro
3Axis Accelerometer
3 Axis Magnetic Compass
Connectivity| Wireless
ELECTRICAL VALUES
Power input | USB Mi̇cro B plug 5VDC 0.5A (max.) |
---|---|
Power supply | Input 100-240VAC 50/60Hz 0.2A, output 5VDC 1A (max) USB Type A |
Industrial protection | IP20 (no protection against ingress of water) |
OTHER SPECIFICATIONS
Altitude | max. 2000m |
---|---|
Weight | 280 gr (without power supply) |
Dimensions(Width x Length x Height) | 25 mm x 289 mm x 44 mm |
Obstacle detection distance | 80cm- 170cm |
Resolution | 5 cm |
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITION
Ambient temperature range | -10oC to+40oC |
---|---|
Relative humidity range | %30 to %75 |
Atmospheric pressure range | 70 kPa to 106 kPa |
For transport and storage
Ambient temperature range | -40oC to +70oC |
---|---|
Relative humidity range | %10 to%100 |
Atmospheric pressure range | 50 kPa to 106 kPa |
INPUTS /OUTPUTS
1 x Micro USB
SOFTWARE UPDATE
Mobile application update can be carried out over Google Play Store and Apple Store.
POWER CONSUMPTION
FCC (Federal Communications Commission) Compliance
Any Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible
for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired operation.
FCC RF Radiation Exposure Statement
- This Transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.
- This equipment complies with RF radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment . This equipment should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 5mm between the radiator and your body.
WARRANTY CONDITIONS
-
The warranty period starts from the date of delivery of the product and is effective for a period of 1 year.
-
All goods, including parts, are covered under warranty.
-
If the goods fail within the warranty period, the time expended on repair will be added to the remaining warranty period. Repair duration of the goods is a maximum of 20 business days. This period starts from the date that the customer is notified by the service station that they’ve received the damaged goods to be repaired. In the absence of a service station, the period will begin from the date that the customer is notified by the seller, dealer, agent, representative, importer or manufacturer that they’ve received the damaged goods to be repaired. In the event that the product is not repaired within 10 business days, the manufacturer or importer must provide a replacement product with comparable specifications for the use of the customer until the goods are repaired and returned to their owner.
-
If the goods fail within the warranty period due to workmanship and assembly errors, they will be repaired at no cost to the consumer; labour cost, replacement part costs, and any other necessary repair costs will be covered by the seller.
-
If any of the following conditions occur within the warranty period, the customer can exercise their right to a refund or replacement under warranty
a) More than 1 failure within the warranty period b) Exceeding the maximum time required for its repair, c) If it is determined by the authorized service station, seller, manufacturer or importer that the defective product is beyond repair; the consumer may request a refund for the defective product at a discount equivalent to the cost of replacement, or for a full replacement of an equivalent product. The seller cannot refuse the consumer’s demand. If the request is not fulfilled, the seller, manufacturer and importer will be held accountable. -
Damage arising from misuse of the product or any other use considered to be contrary to the product’s intended purpose as outlined in the WeWALK user manual, will not be covered under warranty. Other factors not covered under warranty include: accidental damage, damage resulting from unauthorized 3rd party service repair stations or customer self-repair, cosmetic defects, natural disasters, theft, and submersion (water damage).
-
For any problems that may arise regarding the warranty certificate, T.C. The Ministry of Customs and Trade may apply to the General Directorate of Consumer Protection and Market Surveillance.
WARRANTY OBLIGATION MATTERS TO BE CONSIDERED BY THE CUSTOMER
-
The warranty is void if the original serial number of the product is damaged on the Warranty Certificate.
-
For the warranty obligation to be valid, no person other than WEWALK authorized personnel or authorized services should interfere with the repair and modification of the device in any way.
-
The authorized service determines the repair location (location or service workshop) and shape of the defective device.
-
The defective device is not covered by the warranty under the conditions described below:
a) Malfunctions caused by external equipment (regulator, uninterrupted power supply, etc.) connected to the device, b) Abnormal voltage drop or excess, incorrect electrical installation, and the device is connected to a mains voltage different from that specified on the label. malfunctions c) Malfunctions that may occur as a result of transfers and placement after the delivery of the goods (falling, excessive shaking, impact etc.), d) Deterioration, scratches, breaks and malfunctions on the outer and inner surfaces caused by the usage errors of the device, e) Natural events (lightning, malfunctions caused by flood, flood, earthquake, fire etc.). In such cases, the defective device will be repaired by authorized WEWALK experts, and standard repair fee will be charged. -
The responsibility of delivering the Warranty Certificate to the consumer by completing the responsibility belongs to the authorized dealers, agents or representative offices where the consumer purchases the goods. Warranty Certificate purchased It must include the date and number of the invoice for the good and the serial number
CUSTOMER’S OPTIONAL RIGHTS
Customer; If it is understood that the product is defective in accordance with the provisions of the Law No. 6502 on Consumer Protection, even if the defect occurred later, within the one-year period of expiry of the goods to the customer
- Returning from the contract by declaring that he is ready to return the sold,
- Retaining the sold and asking for a discount in the rate of shame, one of his elective rights against the Seller;
- If it does not require an excessive cost, it may be used against the seller for free repair of the seller at all costs,
- If possible, asking the seller to be replaced with an indifferent amount, and one of his optional rights may be used against the Seller, the manufacturer or the importer
In the event that free repair or replacement of the goods with defect will
bring disproportionate difficulties for the seller, the consumer may use one
of the right to return from the contract or to deduct from the cost.
Customer; can apply to complaints and appeals to the Consumer Courts and the
Consumer Arbitration Committees
WARRANTY CERTIFICATE
WEWALK SMARTCANE – SPECIAL EDITION
SERIAL NUMBER:
PURCHASE DATE: MAXIMUM REPAIR TIME: 20 BUSINESS DAYS ONE (1) YEAR WEWALK
WARRANTY
SELLER’S
COMPANY NAME:
ADDRESS:
MOBILE PHONE NUMBER: E-MAIL:
INVOICE DATEINVOICE NAME:
SIGNATURE
INVOICE NAME:
SIGNATURE
References
- WeWALK Smart Cane – Smart Cane for the Visually Impaired
- WeWALK Smart Cane – Smart Cane for the Visually Impaired
- Download – WeWALK Smart Cane
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