University of Virginia doctoral student Giovanna Camacho is breaking new ground with a wearable navigation device designed to aid search and rescue divers, assist soldiers, and potentially support the visually impaired. Inspired by her background in engineering psychology and diving, Camacho is developing a low-cost device that could improve underwater navigation in zero-visibility environments.

The system uses vibrating “tactors” embedded in a wearable belt, guiding users via precise, intuitive pulses rather than traditional rope tugs or verbal cues. Integrating GPS, the device offers silent guidance for divers, and future prototypes could serve additional applications, from military missions to assistive technology for the visually impaired.

With initial testing underway and funding from the Virginia Space Consortium and UVA, Camacho is working on a wireless, waterproof second prototype, and aims to integrate AI for enhanced movement prediction and user guidance.