Abstract: An assistive device includes a sensor that detects information using a first modality; an actuator that conveys information using a second, different modality; and a controller that automatically receives information from the sensor and operates the actuator to provide a corresponding actuation. A sensory assisting system for a user includes assistive devices and a support the user wears to hold the devices in proximity to body parts. The fields of view of the devices' sensors extend at least partly outward from the body parts. The controller reads the sensors and operates the corresponding actuators. The actuators are as close as possible to their corresponding sensors.

Abstract: An assistive device includes a sensor that detects information using a first modality; an actuator that conveys information using a second, different modality; and a controller that automatically receives information from the sensor and operates the actuator to provide a corresponding actuation. A sensory assisting system for a user includes assistive devices and a support the user wears to hold the devices in proximity to body parts. The fields of view of the devices' sensors extend at least partly outward from the body parts. The controller reads the sensors and operates the corresponding actuators. A method of configuring a sensory assisting system includes successively activating actuators and receiving corresponding user feedback; determining perceptibility relationships for devices per the feedback; and repeatedly: activating the actuators per a virtual environment, a user avatar position, and the relationships; receiving a user navigation command; and moving the user avatar.