Revolutionary vibrating vests enhance live music experience for the deaf

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

Patrick Hanlon has pioneered a groundbreaking technology that is transforming live music events for concertgoers who are deaf or hard of hearing. These haptic vibrating vests are revolutionizing inclusivity by allowing individuals to «hear» music through vibrations, providing an immersive experience like never before. Developed by Music: Not Impossible, the vibrating vests are programmed to convert various musical elements into corresponding vibrations, creating a unique sensory journey for each user.

Violins resonate in the ribcage, cellos and bass create sensations a bit lower, while horns vibrate in the shoulders, and soloists' music is experienced in the wrists. With 24 points of vibration on wireless vests, the technology mimics the music on stage, enabling those with auditory disabilities to fully experience the music through touch. Recently showcased at a concert in Manhattan's Lincoln Center, the wireless vest with its 24 vibration points garnered praise for delivering a remarkable 3D surround sound experience.

For Jay Zimmerman, who lost his hearing during the September 2001 attack, this technology represents hope for deaf children to build auditory memory through these unique sensations. Previously, individuals with hearing impairments had limited ways to connect with music, such as placing their hands on woofers or holding balloons with their fingertips to feel vibrations. However, these methods were unable to replicate the true music experience that the vibrating vests now provide.