A team of Toronto-area innovators has developed a haptic harness system that allows a deafblind climber to communicate with her guide during an attempt to summit Mount Everest. The device, designed by Dr. Leon Lu at the University of Toronto in Mississauga, uses vibrations to convey directional commands, replacing verbal or visual cues.
How the haptic harness works
The harness is equipped with multiple vibrating motors that correspond to different directions—left, right, forward, stop. The guide sends signals via a handheld controller, and the climber feels the vibrations on their torso. This system was specifically created for a deafblind woman who is part of an expedition aiming to reach Everest's peak.
According to Dr. Lu, the harness underwent rigorous testing to ensure it functions reliably in extreme cold and high altitude. "The motors need to be strong enough to be felt through multiple layers of clothing, yet energy-efficient for long climbs," he said.
Overcoming communication barriers
Deafblind individuals typically rely on tactile sign language or physical touch to communicate, which is impractical during a technical climb. The haptic harness offers a hands-free alternative, allowing the climber to focus on the terrain while receiving constant guidance.
The project is a collaboration between the University of Toronto, a local tech startup, and the climber's support team. Funding came from a Canadian innovation grant aimed at assistive technologies.
Impact on accessibility in extreme sports
If successful, the harness could pave the way for more inclusive mountaineering and other adventure sports. The team plans to refine the design based on feedback from the Everest expedition and eventually make it available to other disabled climbers.
"This is about breaking down barriers and proving that with the right technology, anyone can pursue their dreams," said a spokesperson for the climber's team. The expedition is expected to reach the summit within the next few weeks, weather permitting.
