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This study introduces a low-cost electronic aid for visually impaired individuals, enhancing obstacle detection. The device uses phase-modulated ultrasonic pulses and a mobile phone interface, improving safety and user satisfaction.

Keywords:
electronic aidsrange sensorultrasonicvisually impaired

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Area of Science:

  • Assistive Technology
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Sensory Substitution

Background:

  • Visually impaired individuals face significant challenges in mobility, primarily concerning obstacle detection and avoidance.
  • Existing electronic mobility aids are often complex and expensive, limiting their widespread adoption.
  • There is a need for affordable, user-friendly assistive devices to enhance the independence of blind people.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To design and develop a low-cost, enhanced ultrasonic-based mobility aid for the visually impaired.
  • To improve the accuracy and reliability of obstacle detection by minimizing interference from other ultrasonic sources.
  • To create an accessible device that integrates with a user's mobile phone, reducing cost and complexity.

Main Methods:

  • Modification of a standard HC-SRF04 ultrasonic range sensor with phase modulation to distinguish echo origins.
  • Development of a system that utilizes phase modulation to filter out interfering signals, enhancing detection accuracy.
  • Integration of the sensor with a mobile phone application, informed by user and trainer feedback, for ease of use and cost reduction.

Main Results:

  • The modified ultrasonic sensor successfully discriminated between direct echoes and external interference, improving detection reliability.
  • Field testing with twenty visually impaired individuals demonstrated a reduction in involuntary obstacle contacts.
  • User satisfaction surveys indicated a high level of acceptance and perceived improvement in mobility and security.

Conclusions:

  • The developed low-cost electronic aid effectively addresses the limitations of current mobility devices for the visually impaired.
  • The phase modulation technique significantly enhances the accuracy and security of ultrasonic-based obstacle detection.
  • The device offers a practical and affordable solution, reducing insecurity and improving the mobility of blind individuals.