Ultrasound-sensing based navigational support for visually impaired

thingiverse

Visually impaired people can now benefit from a cutting-edge navigational support system that features 3-D printable case components and is designed to aid in distance measurement and obstacle avoidance. The innovative system relies on a 5-volt HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor, which employs SONAR technology to calculate the distance to an object within a range of 0.02-4 meters with a measuring angle of 30 degrees. The sensor efficiently detects obstacles in front of the user's body from head level down to the ground and provides haptic feedback through a 10 mm flat vibration motor, which generates oscillations with variable amplitude based on the distance to the obstacle. This versatile device can be placed on either the right or left hand without hindering the use of the hand for other tasks. It conveys point-distance information and can be used as part of an assembly of assistive devices or as an augmentation to a regular white cane. By utilizing an active sensing approach, in which users constantly scan their surroundings, this method allows individuals to achieve better spatial perception and accuracy due to its similarity to natural sensory processes. The research behind this device was published in the MDPI Sensors Journal (open access) by Aliaksei L. Petsiuk and Joshua M. Pearce: "Low-cost open source ultrasound-sensing based navigational support for visually impaired." It is available online at doi.org/10.3390/s19173783. A supplementary video demonstrating the assembly and testing of this device can be found on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FA9r2Y27qvY. For those interested in creating their own customizable flexible bracelet, a design file is available on Thingiverse at https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3733136.