Eye for the Blind

Abstract

This project is designed to increase the independence of those with visual impairments. A large percentage of visually impaired people rely on a number of devices to help them complete day to day tasks.  These include walking canes, seeing-eye dogs, and/or other people to do basic tasks for them. Our project is not designed to replace any of these existing systems nor for the user to solely rely on this system. Rather, it is designed to provide the user greater independence and freedom in daily life by assisting the user’s current systems. Our system includes a number of sensors designed to gather information from the environment and provide feedback to the user. The main component of our system is an ultrasonic distance sensor and a vibration motor that alerts the user to nearby objects. The ultrasonic acts as an input sensor while the vibration motor is our output sensor. This system also includes a number of subsystems intended to increase the user experience, one of which is a fall detection system, intended mainly for those who are visually impaired and elderly. A Bluetooth module facilitates communication with a smartphone. The Bluetooth also allows a close companion of the visually impaired to be able to turn on the output sensor and warn the user of incoming danger. We have also created an auto cutoff battery charger to help the visually impaired. This allows the battery that runs the system to safely be charged and used for a prolonged period of time. This auto-cut off battery charger also protects the battery from overcharging, so the visually impaired person does not need to concern themselves about overcharging.