Smart and Cost-Effective Device for Visually Impaired People

Abstract

Mobility and navigation are always challenging for visually impaired people. The daily life activities of these persons are hampered because of their inability to conceive, identify or locate things. Many researchers have developed different devices for blind people using the concept of echolocation. However, those devices could not benefit blind persons living in an undeveloped areas because of too much complexity, cost, inability to detect trenches, and vulnerability. This study aims to address the design and development of a smart device that can efficiently detect trenches and obstacles. The 3D model of the prototype is designed using Fusion 360 software. The ultrasonic sensors will be used in measuring the distance and if the user is near any obstacle or trench then Arduino nano will send recorded voices to warn the user. The voices will pass through the process of amplification and using a 433MHz Radio Frequency (RF) transmitter these recorded voices will go to the 433MHz receiver set inside the 3D-Printed earphones. The electrical signal received by the 433MHZ RF receiver is then changed into sound using the speaker. Based on the questionnaire of the trial prototype, 94.64% of respondents stated that the designed device is wearable, reliable, cost-effective, and easy to use.