An affordable and attachable electronic device for the blind

This paper introduces the development and evaluation of an affordable device which complements the workings of a white cane. The attachable device is bolstered with environmental sensing sonars, allowing the visually impaired to navigate around safely and efficiently. With the usage of ultrasonic sensors, hanging objects, incoming step-down and walls can be detected. Users are cautioned of potential risks through audio and vibration cues. A 3D printed casing was designed to house the components, allowing costs to be kept low and prototypes to be developed rapidly. Initial tests on blindfolded test subjects in both indoor and outdoor conditions have proved to be successful.