2007.33.14

Mowat Sonar Sensor

Mowat , Geoff

(a) Sensor unit; black rectangular steel case, screen on front covers two round transducers, one an untra sonic emitter, the other a receiver; gray plastic momentary switch on top; toggle on/off switch on back along with round screw-off battery compartment lid with knurled edges; screen printed on side in white, "MADE BY MOWAT DEVELOPMENTS LTD., AUCKLAND 5, N.Z."; (b) cardboard clamshell shipping box, yellow overall with black and white stripes to right, "MOWAT SONAR SENSOR/MADE IN NEW ZEALAND BY/MOWAT DEVELOPMENTS LTD., AUCKLAND N.Z. PATENTS PENDING"; orange foam compartment for sensor, four 3 volt "Gould Burgess Alkaline Photo" batteries

H-2 W-0.875 D-5.25 inches

1976

Mowatt Developments, Ltd; Mowat, Geoff

Auckland, NZ

Invented in 1972 by Geoff Mowat of Auckland, NZ, the Mowat Sensor was developed commercially by Wormald International Sensory Aids Ltd (forerunner of Humanware) and introduced on the international market in 1977. This model predates the Mowat-Wormald development agreement. The device emits a beam of ultrasonic sound and detects its reflection from objects and obstacles. The Mowat vibrates when it detects objects within its range. The rate of vibration suggests the range of the obstacle from the user. Intended as a secondary ETA in conjunction with dog or cane, the Mowat was small enough to be carried in a pocket or purse until needed.

Gift of Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired