User Manual

.lumen Glasses for the Blind – Instructions for Use (IFU) 

 

Release date: 12/01/2026 

Product name: .lumen glasses for the blind 

 

Important notice 

By using the .lumen Glasses for the Blind you agree with the Terms and Conditions outlined on .lumen website.  

 

1. Introduction (Read me first) 

1.1. About this manual 

 

Read the whole instructions for use document before wearing for the first time the .lumen glasses to maximize the quality and safety of your experience. 

This document contains all the official Instruction for Use (IFU) that be used in the production and sale of the .lumen glasses for the blind. 

As per Article 2 of the MDR 2017/745 EU regulation ‘instruction for use’ means:  

• the information provided by the manufacturer to inform the user of a device's intended purpose and proper use and of any precautions to be taken. 

The latest version of all the IFU information is presented in this document in all languages of the countries in which the product will be sold.  

The content of this document is confidential and solely the property of .lumen SRL and it is protected by copyright and Intellectual Property laws. It is strictly prohibited to should not be modify, reproduce, publish, or adapt any content of the instructions manual in the absence of written approval from .lumen. .lumen takes no responsibility if the glasses were worn in high-risk situations or for purposes other than the ones mentioned in this user manual. 

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2. Warnings and safety information 

2.1. Contraindications/known risks  

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Usage Recommendations 

• .lumen glasses should be used together with any familiar assistive technology used by the user (e.g., guide dog ). Especially at the beginning of the familiarization process with glasses, the user should NOT entirely rely on them since it takes time to practice using them indoors and outdoors. 

Safety Warnings 

• Incorrect handling could result in fire, electrical shock, injury, or burn.  

• Avoid using the glasses in unstable or shaking environments, near windows, balconies or moving vehicles. 

Age Restrictions or Special Considerations 

• .lumen glasses are not in use for individuals aged under 18 years old. 

• Even though the glasses can be used by elderly users, we strongly recommend special caution due to the complexity of the device which might require additional time for them to familiarize with it, due to reduced dexterity or loss of concentration. 

• Avoid using the glasses if you have any hearing impairments. They rely hearing the audio feedback properly, which is essential for safety. 

Mental/Psychiatric/Physical Disorders and Medication Intake 

• Avoid using the glasses if you have severe mobility issues or any physical condition that significantly affects your ability to use electronic devices. 

• Avoid using the glasses while currently taking any medication that may cause symptoms of dizziness, headache, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, anxiety or restlessness, pain, irritability, insomnia or any other effects that could compromise safe use. 

Substance Use Precautions 

• Avoid using the glasses under the influence of drugs or alcohol. 

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3. Product description 

3.1. General Product Description

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Just like a Guide Dog, the .lumen Glasses guide its users in a direction decided by the user. All of this while guiding around obstacles, keeping the user on the sidewalk when outdoor, or helping cross a street. But while a Guide Dog works by pulling the user’s hand, the Glasses use vibrations on the forehead to represent the direction in which the user can go to keep safe. In a way, if the Guide Dog pulls your hand, the Glasses ”pull” your head.

 

The .lumen Glasses is a headset incorporating self-driving technology– the same technology that makes cars drive themselves, scaled down to a headset which you can comfortably wear. All of this is done to replicate the same benefits as the Guide Dog, to all the people who need a Guide Dog, but can’t have or don’t want to have one. The following pages present the main components of the Glasses.

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3.2. Intended use 

 

.lumen glasses for the blind can be used outdoors and indoors for navigation and mobility purposes with the help of intuitive haptics and auditory feedback mechanisms. The glasses can be used only for the intended use mentioned in this document, and all the users should read and fully understand all the instructions provided after purchasing .lumen glasses.   

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4.1. About 

4.1.1. What are the .lumen glasses? 

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Just like a guide dog guides its owner, the .lumen glasses guide the user by providing relevant information user through intuitive haptics and auditory feedback mechanisms. The .lumen glasses can: 

• Guide the user to specific points of interest 

• Detect obstacles above or below ground and prevent collisions  

• Indicate safe walking paths and help the user avoid roads, puddles, or mud 

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4.2. Technical description/specifications 

 

The .lumen Glasses are made of 3 main parts:

• The FrontSet– Containing the Cameras, the Haptic and Audio Feedback interfaces, and the BrowPad.

• The NeckSet– Where the batteries, processors, and most importantly, the adjusting mechanism sit.

• The OverHead Strap– Which is used as another layer of comfort adjustment for the Glasses.

 

The following sections explain each component of the .lumen Glasses.

 

4.2.1. FrontSet

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The FrontSet is the front part of the .lumen Glasses, containing:

• 6 Cameras, in front and downwards

• 3 Buttons on the left and 1 Microphone on the right, underneath

• 1 Haptic Feedback Interface towards the inside

• 2 Speakers underneath on the sides, as the Audio Feedback Interface

• 1 BrowPad on top of the Haptic Feedback Interface.

 

There are 6 cameras, each one with its own inside protrusion. Avoid touching the cameras, as dirt or fingerprints can negatively impact the performance. The 3 downwards looking cameras see nearby obstacles while the 3 forward looking cameras

help plan the route in front.

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There are 3 buttons, titled LEFT, SELECT, and RIGHT. The Tutorials on the Glasses will teach you how to use them to navigate the menu during first boot or anytime by accessing Tutorials from the Home Menu.

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The Haptic Feedback Interface has 9 horizontal haptic pads evenly distributed across your forehead. They provide vibrations to point toward the safest place you can go next. The direction is adapted in real time when you are rotating your head. This is also an APPLIED PART.

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RECOMMENDATION: Ensure that all 9 haptic pads are working properly before each use of the Glasses. Check the Troubleshooting Chapter for any issues.

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The 2-directional speakers can be found underneath the sides of the Glasses. They ensure that you hear the instructions while they minimize the amount of sound getting to other people nearby.

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The BrowPad is an ergonomic surface with soft padding that should make direct contact with the area above your forehead. This is also an APPLIED PART. During use, make sure the weight of the FrontSet is distributed via the BrowPad.

 

IMPORTANT: Do not remove the soft padding of the BrowPad, as it may reduce the

level of comfort and impact the prolonged use of the Glasses.

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4.2.2. NeckSet

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The NeckSet is the back part of the .lumen Glasses containing:

• Adjusting Mechanism Knob

• Power Button

• Charging Port

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The following pages explain each component of the NeckSet. This is also an APPLIED PART.

 

The Adjustment Mechanism Knob is a round and textured knob in the middle of the NeckSet, used to adjust the Glasses. Turn it to the LEFT to un-tighten and to the RIGHT to tighten the Glasses. The Charging Port is a small rectangular opening on the left side of the NeckSet, where you insert the USB-C cable to charge the Glasses. The Power Button is a button located on the right of the Adjusting Mechanism Knob, and it is used for powering ON and OFF the Glasses.

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The OverHead Strap is a flexible strap that goes over the top of your head and adjusts to your head’s shape, keeping the Glasses secure and comfortable. The Velcro located on the top of the OverHead Strap helps you extend and adjust the OverHead Strap. This is also an APPLIED PART. RECOMMENDATION: For a more comfortable fit, adjust both the OverHead Strap and the Adjusting Mechanism Knob to ensure an even distribution of the Glasses’ weight on your head.

 

5. First use 

5.1. Instructions on where/when to use the glasses 

 

This section describes how to use the .lumen Glasses for the first time. They can be used both indoors and outdoors, during daytime.

 

IMPORTANT: For the first use, please choose a quiet indoor location that you know well, such as your home. Make sure there is enough space to move around and there are no objects that might harm you upon touching them. Lastly, make sure there is enough light, either natural or turn on the lights, to make sure the Glasses understand your environment well.

 

5.2. Instructions on how to put on/ wear the .lumen glasses 

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STEP 1: Locate the NeckSet by finding the round Adjustment Knob.

STEP 2: Find the FrontSet, locate the OverHead Strap in the center and top of the head, and follow it to both sides, where it connects to the NeckSet.

STEP 3: Extend the OverHead Strap fully using the Velcro adjustment system. If the strap detaches, feel for the small slot on the top center of the FrontSet and the two slots on the NeckSet, one on each side. Insert the strap into these slots.

STEP 4: Turn the Adjustment Mechanism Knob counterclockwise until the Glasses are fully extended. You will know they are fully extended as the Adjustment Knob will not rotate anymore. IMPORTANT: Do not over-tighten or over-open the adjustment mechanism as this might damage the system and require repairs.

STEP 5: Put on the Glasses on the head using both hands with the FrontSet aligned with the NeckSet in a straight line. A correct positioning of the Glasses means that:

• The Velcro of the OverHead Strap is above your head.

• The NeckSet rests on the back of your head but does not touch your shoulders.

• The Haptic Feedback Interface has direct contact with your forehead only, while the BrowPad rests slightly above your forehead.

STEP 6: Tighten the Glasses by turning the Adjusting Mechanism Knob to the RIGHT until it is tied enough that the Glasses feel comfortable and secure.

STEP 7: Tighten the OverHead Strap using the Velcro, adjusting it as much as needed until it feels comfortable. Shake your head gently left to right to ensure the Glasses are securely positioned.

STEP 8: Take into account the following aspects:

- Adjusting the Glasses too tightly leads to the desensitization of your forehead to the Haptic Feedback Interface, while adjusting them too loosely can influence how strongly you feel the vibrations that guide you.

- The .lumen Glasses might seem heavy at first use until you identify the correct and comfortable position of the Glasses for your head.

- It is normal for the .lumen Glasses to become warm during use.

 

5.3. Instructions on how to power on the .lumen glasses 

 

To Turn ON the Glasses, make sure they are placed on your head. Then, find and press the Power Button, which is located on the right side of the Adjustment Mechanism Knob. The Glasses will start, and the built-in Tutorials will follow. The Glasses should start and offer audio confirmation. If there is no audio message or is an error sound, the Glasses might be discharged. Read the How to Charge section of this chapter or the Troubleshooting Chapter.

 

 

5.4. Instructions on how to remove the .lumen glasses

 

To remove the Glasses from the head, do the following:

• While keeping the Glasses on your head, turn the Adjusting Mechanism Knob to LEFTuntil they feel loose enough to be lift off using both your hands.

• OPTIONAL: Unhook the Velcro of the OverHead Strap and extend it.

 

RECOMMENDATION: After each use, store the Glasses on a horizontal and stable

surface or directly in their own box.

 

5.5. Instructions on how to charge the .lumen glasses

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Identify the USB-C charging port on the left of Adjusting Mechanism Knob on the NeckSet. Use the provided USB-C Charging Cable and Charger and connect one end of the cable to the Charging port, and the other one to the socket connected Charger.

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RECOMMENDATION: Charging time can be up to 2 hours.

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6. Detailed instructions 

 

6.1. Tutorials

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The tutorial mode helps you get familiar with the functionalities of the Glasses. It includes a series of voice announcements from the system that only progress once you complete a certain task.

The tutorials include:

• First boot tutorial (you set the Glasses language and volume)

• Buttons tutorial (you learn how to use and press the buttons to navigate the Glassesmenu)

• Haptics tutorial (you experience the haptic feedback for the first time)

• Headturner tutorial (you learn how to follow the haptic feedback)

• Indoor Guide Me Tutorial (you experience navigation with the Glasses in a safe indoor environment)

• Outdoor Guide Me Tutorial (you experience navigation with the Glasses in a safe outdoor environment)

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How to turn ON/OFF the Tutorials:

• To start the tutorial, you need to navigate to the ‘Tutorial’ option of the menu using the LEFT/SELECT/RIGHT buttons.

• To exit the tutorial, you need to finish it.

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6.2. Guide me - Indoor

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Guide Me Mode replicates the main functionality of the Guide Dog. It keeps you safe while avoiding obstacles and keeping you on a safe walkable terrain.

 

To turn on Guide Me follow the steps described under Button Menu with Audio Feedback.

 

Upon starting the Guide Me, the Glasses will:

1. Scan the terrain in front of you for obstacles that exceed the height of 10 cm.

2. Understand the type of terrain in front of you and classify it under 3 categories:

• Walkable refers to surfaces on which you can walk and there are no obstacles, while

• Non-walkable surfaces are the ones on which you should not walk, and the Glasses will direct you away from them.

• Conditionally-Walkable surfaces represent the ones on which you might be able to walk, but it is your decision to do so (e.g., Crosswalks, Bike Lanes, Rails)

3. Compute where you can safely go and perform these actions repeatedly. After turning the Guide Me Mode on, you will feel sensory feedback from the Haptic Feedback Interface on your forehead. The haptic feedback will guide you towards the further point it can reach that is safe, walkable, and in sight of the glasses (up to 5.5 meters).

 

To turn off the Guide Me, perform one of the following options:

• Use the Button Menu with Audio Feedback to activate the STOP command

• Switch to any other system mode, except for Settings, by using the Button Menu.

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6.3. Guide me - Outdoor

 

The only difference between the Guide Me Indoor Mode and Guide Me Outdoor Mode is the environment in which the Glasses guide you to avoid obstacles on safe walkable terrain. In the case of outdoor Conditionally-Walkable surfaces such as pedestrian crossings, the Glasses will:

• Guide you towards where it begins and will notify you with the ‘Crosswalk’ message using spoken words via the Audio interface.

• Start the Alert Haptic Feedback and keep it active until you reach Walkable terrain

again.

 

6.4. Alert Haptic Feedback

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One feature included in the navigation is the Alert Haptic Feedback. To use it, you must first go through the tutorial. The feature is called Alert Haptic Feedback. Just like regular haptic feedback, Alert Haptic Feedback will guide you along the best possible path. The key difference is that this type of feedback requires increased attention, as it is used only when you are

walking on potentially dangerous surfaces, such as curbs, ramps, crosswalks, bike lanes, and roads.

Notice how the vibration pattern is different by following the next objectives. To do this, you will need to stand up. The motors will start vibrating in a distinct pattern, specific to Alert Haptic Feedback. Follow this vibration as it changes, and observe how it differs from regular haptic feedback. Remember: whenever you feel this type of vibration, pay extra attention! Alert Haptic Feedback is linked to haptic feedback and activates whenever you are walking on a potentially dangerous area.

 

7. Maintenance   

 

For each problem (problem description and how to fix it) 

As a general recommendation, force a shutdown by pressing the power button for a long time in case of unresponsive behavior.  

Note: If you cannot fix the problem you encounter with the instructions mentioned in this section, please notify the .lumen support team for assistance. 

 

7.1 Cleaning the glasses 

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IMPORTANT:

• Turn off the Glasses before cleaning them.

• Do not submerge the Glasses in water or other liquids.

• Do not clean any component of the Glasses with chemicals, such as solvents, household cleaners, abrasive products, or the washing machine, as these can damage the Glasses.

 

Lenses

• Clean the camera lenses frequently for proper obstacle detection.

• Do not touch the cameras lenses with your fingers when handling the Glasses.

• Remove the dirt or dust in a circular motion by using the cleaning cloth provided.

 

Glasses

• Clean the exterior of the Glasses using non-corrosive, alcohol-free disinfecting wipes

without removing any component of the Glasses.

 

OverHead Strap

• The Overhead strap can be detached entirely from the Glasses for cleaning purposes.

• Clean the strap with the provided cleaning cloth or a damp cloth, avoiding the Velcro.

 

7.2 Transport and storage of the Glasses

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Proper storage of the Glasses is essential to maintain their functionality.

The packaging of the box is designed to protect the Glasses from dust, damage, or other

environmental factors.

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RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Store the Glasses in their own box after each use.

• Keep all the accessories provided in the designated compartments in the box to prevent loss or damage.

• Do not remove the protective foam from the box.

• Store the box away from direct sunlight, heat sources, or extreme temperatures. The ideal storage temperature is between 50°F and 77°F (10°C to 25°C).

 

IMPORTANT: Batteries exposed to extremely low or high temperatures can lead to dangerous situations such as fires, explosions, or leakage of flammable and harmful substances into the environment.

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7.3 Charging the Glasses

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Proper charging practices maximize battery life, the overall performance of the Glasses, and limit troubleshooting charging issues.

 

RECOMMENDATIONS:

- Charge the Glasses with the provided Charger.

- Once fully charged, disconnect the Charger to preserve battery health.

- Do not attempt to charge the device if the Glasses were in contact with any liquid that might have entered the interior.

- Try to avoid letting the battery drop to 0% regularly.

- Frequent short charging sessions are generally better for battery longevity than charging from 0% to 100% in one go. Keeping the battery level between 20% and 80% can help extend its lifespan.

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8. Troubleshooting

 

8.1. Potential issues and how to fix them 

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In case of unresponsive behavior, force a shutdown by pressing and holding the Power Button for 5 seconds. If the issue persists after reading this section, contact the .lumen representative.

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8.1.1. The Glasses do not power on

 

Most likely, the device needs to be charged. Follow the instructions of the section Charging.

 

8.1.2. The tutorials do not start – ‘Cannot do that right now’ notification message OR Guide Me does not start – ‘Cannot do that right now’ notification message

 

Wait 10 seconds and try again. Make sure there is nothing obstructing the front and down cameras.

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8.1.3.  No Haptic Feedback detected

 

Make sure the Glasses are turned on and in Guide Me Mode. Retry the Haptic Calibration. You can find it in Options > Calibration

 

8.1.4. No Audio Feedback detected

 

Make sure the Glasses are charged. Try to increase the volume from the volume control.

 

8.1.5. Poor Audio Feedback quality

 

Check the volume buttons on the speakers to ensure no dust or liquids have entered. Use a dry cloth to gently clean the buttons or speakers. Restart the Glasses and check if the audio is clearer.

 

8.1.6. The Glasses are not charging properly

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Ensure that the USB-C cable is properly connected to both the Glasses and the USB PD charger. Unplug and plug the USB-C Cable into the USB PD charger and Glasses. Try using a different USB PD charger in the house; the one you're using right now might be the problem. Allow the Glasses to charge for at least 15 minutes. If the charge percentage doesn't increase even by

1%, try using a different USB PD charger. Manage the use time effectively to save battery life and the performance of the Glasses.

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8.1.7. The Glasses frequently overheat

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Remove the device from the head. Check the ventilation or cooling system. Check for dust around the cooling system. Check for any device deficiencies or physical damage. Avoid prolonged wear, especially in direct sunlight or near heat sources.

Use a cooling pad for electronic devices.

 

9. Warranty 

 

Warranty period 

.lumen glasses are covered by a warranty of 2 years. To make sure they are under warranty if no longer functional, do not:  

• Attempt to disassemble the glasses. 

• Attempt to dispose of a battery or any component by burning or under a heated source. 

• Attempt to repair the glasses by yourself in case of malfunction. 

Repairs performed on the Lumen glasses without authorization may result in the warranty being voided. 

 

Instructions on how to prepare the glasses for return/repair under warranty 

• Check the warranty status and confirm the device is still under warranty by checking the purchase date and the warranty period. Find the original receipt (electronic or paper-based), warranty card, or proof of purchase. 

• Contact DOTLUMEN.SRL’s or your local Retailer’s customer support to initiate the repair process. Follow any specific instructions the support team gave, including instructions on how to ship the device. 

• Pack the device securely in the original black box to protect it during transit. If you no longer have the original black box received with the device, ask for instructions from the customer support team on shipping the device.  

• Ship the device by labeling the package with the repair center’s address and your return address. Use a reliable shipping service with tracking and insurance to ensure the device safely reaches the repair center.  

 

10. Disposal 

 

The glasses and the accessories are made from plastic and metal components. Respect the national guidelines for disposing of these materials. 

This device contains electronic components and an incorporated battery that must not be disposed of with regular household waste. Improper disposal can lead to environmental harm and may violate local regulations. 

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11. Contact and Support 

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If you are having issues that they can’t resolve using the information in this user manual, you should contact the .lumen representative through the following:

- Support e-mail address: contact@doltumen.com

 

You can provide feedback on the .lumen Glasses through the same e-mail address.

 

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