In the world of deep tech, where technical complexity often overshadows purpose, there are projects that shine for a different reason: their ability to merge pioneering science with tangible human impact.
The Abdominal Tactile Visionproject, led by Dr. Tomás Ortiz is one of those rare cases. It was not born in an isolated laboratory; it emerged from a casual coffee‑table conversation among scientists and engineers united by a shared social mission: improving the lives of blind individuals.
That informal discussion became the seed. "here was no scientific curiosity at the beginning, there was a genuine desire to improve these individuals’ quality of life."
CMO of Bolboreta Innova Group. 25 years in strategic marketing and branding, specializing in connecting brands with people.
CMO de Bolboreta Innova Group.
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The Science of Learning: Why the Brian Never Ceases to Amaze Us
Tomás Ortiz's passion for learning is rooted in a fascinating finding: "The brain, from birth, is prepared to learn through multi-stimulation". This innate ability to integrate multiple senses is the foundation that his team is harnessing to create an entirely new sensory pathway.
The journey, however, has involved significant challenges. The project’s engineers point to two major hurdles: "Integrating sound, image, depth and processing to translate everything into touch" was the first. The second, still under development, is "miniaturizing the entire system to make it comfortable and lightweight".
The abdominal interface itself is a breakthrough. Unlike the tongue or hands, the abdomen doesn’t interfere with daily life—offering a unique ergonomic advantage and expanding real‑world usability.
The most valuable asset: a team united by passion
When asked about the most valuable part of the project, Ortiz looks beyond the technical milestones. He highlights cross‑disciplinary learning and the synergy that has formed among the team—and that sentiment is shared by everyone involved.
Pati Omaña, project coordinator at Bolboreta Innova Group, puts it succinctly: “The human side of this project is exactly what makes us different. We do science with conscience.”
El valor del acompañamiento de Bolboreta Impulsa se resume en una palabra: personas. “Al margen de la parte económica… es el entusiasmo y la pasión que han puesto”, afirma Ortiz.
A colorful horizon and new applications ahead
The scientific objectives are ambitious and encouraging. Dr. Ortiz pursues two major goals: "Enabling newborns to develop a new pathway that allows them to physically see," and, in the long run, "making it possible for these individuals to see in color."
In addition, this technology could also pave the way for addressing other conditions, as "touch may be key to recovering a wide range of cognitive, emotional and social functions."
Science with a conscience for a better tomorrow
This project embodies a core belief: investing in science is investing in the future. As Bolboreta Innova, CEO Itzal Urbide reflects: "Scientists are one of our most valuable assets. The only way to build a better tomorrow is by investing in solutions like this.".
It's a powerful reminder that when technology is guided by a deeply human purpose, it not only advances science, but illuminates people's lives.
Enjoy the full interview with Ortiz and his team. Click here.
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