Assistive obstacle detection and navigation devices for vision-impaired users

Abstract

Quality of life for the visually impaired is an urgent worldwide issue that needs to be addressed. Obstacle detection is one of the most important navigation tasks for the visually impaired. In this research, a novel range sensor placement scheme is proposed in this paper for the development of obstacle detection devices. Based on this scheme, two prototypes have been developed targeting at different user groups. This paper discusses the design issues, functional modules and the evaluation tests carried out for both prototypes.

Implications for Rehabilitation

• Visual impairment problem is becoming more severe due to the worldwide ageing population. Individuals with visual impairment require assistance from assistive devices in daily navigation tasks.

• Traditional assistive devices that assist navigation may have certain drawbacks, such as the limited sensing range of a white cane.

• Obstacle detection devices applying the range sensor technology can identify road conditions with a higher sensing range to notify the users of potential dangers in advance.

• Assistive device
• obstacle detection
• wearable devices

Acknowledgements

The authors acknowledge contributions from H. B. H. Abdul, Bryan K. H. Poh, M. K. Chua and E. T. Liang.