RFID and GPS integrated navigation system for the visually impaired

This paper describes an RFID and GPS integrated navigation system, Smart-Robot (SR) for the visually impaired. The SR uses RFID and GPS based localization while operating indoor and outdoor respectively. The portable terminal unit is an embedded system equipped with an RFID reader, GPS, and analog compass as input devices to obtain location and orientation. The SR can guide the user to a predefined destination, or create a new route on-the-fly for later use. While in navigation mode, the SR reaches the destination by avoiding obstacles using ultrasonic and infrared sensor inputs. The SR also provides user feedback through a speaker, and vibrating motors on the glove. The SR prototype has been successfully implemented and is operational.