One graduate from the University of Northampton has turned a deeply personal academic project into a groundbreaking startup, designing smart glasses that could improve independence for millions of visually impaired people.
After studying a postgraduate qualification at the University in 2021, David Sikharulidze was inspired by his own visual impairment of high myopia to focus his research on exploring assistive technology for blind and visually impaired users – an idea that quickly evolved beyond academia.
David put his learning into practice outside of the classroom and founded his company, Mavis Tech, which aims to develop wearable technology that can support visually impaired and blind individuals in daily tasks by providing accessible tools.
“With a visual impairment myself, this project has been very personal,” David explains. “While at University, I realised this could be a product which could really help a lot of people, so I founded Mavis Tech and haven’t looked back since.”
What began as a simple prototype has since developed into two fully working products, both designed and manufactured locally in Northampton – something rare in a sector often reliant on overseas production.
“After developing more than 30 fully working prototypes which were informed by client feedback, and working countless nights, we now have two fully working products, manufactured in the UK, here in Northampton.”
Based at Vulcan Works, David’s company has invested heavily in research and development, building an in-house manufacturing facility and working alongside engineers and student collaborators. The company is also helping to tackle a wider skills gap by engaging the University’s students in hands-on engineering experience.
The smart glasses use advanced technology, including artificial intelligence, to describe surroundings in real time and identify obstacles, offering users greater independence and confidence in everyday life.
With an estimated 2.5 million visually impaired people in the UK, the potential impact is significant.
At a recent product launch event hosted by the University, Hugh Spence, Children, Families and Activities Manager at NAB – Sight Support for Northamptonshire, has seen the technology first-hand and admits he was initially sceptical.
“I remember David coming into our sight centre and thinking ‘these will never work, they sound too good’ – but they really do,” he said. “Trying the glasses and seeing for myself how they can describe what’s around you in such small detail is incredible.”
He added that the technology could be transformative: “These glasses will change people’s lives in so many ways – they will become more independent, more mobile, and they can live the lives they deserve alongside their sighted peers. Who would’ve thought these would be made here in Northampton?”
Demand for assistive technology like this is growing, and interest from the visually impaired community has been strong.
“In the last year, so many people have approached us asking about smart glasses,” Hugh said. “After seeing people try them on and have massive smiles on their faces – I think this could really be the start of something special.”
David continues to work closely with the University and is considering returning to pursue a PhD, further advancing research in assistive technologies for different visual impairments. His work highlights the powerful role universities can play in fostering innovation with real-world impact.
As development continues and awareness grows, there is hope that Northampton could become a hub for accessible technology innovation – with Mavis Tech leading from the front.
Members of the public can reach out to NAB – Sight Support for Northamptonshire via email or telephone: 01604719193.