Obstacles Detection System for Visually Impaired Guidance

In this paper, the 3D obstacles detection system of an integrated environment that improves the mobility of blind persons into a limited area is presented. The proposed solution is bioinspired, i.e. the system detects obstacles in a similar way as a subject with normal sight is looking for obstacles in front of him. For this purpose, both the position of detected obstacles and the position of sensors in 3D environment are available at the output of the system. Based upon this information, an acoustical virtual reality (AVR) is generated, as a substitute for the lost sight of the subject. The content of the paper is focused on 3D obstacles detection, using ultrasonic sensors and the determination of the position of the ultrasonic system, with magnetic sensors and accelerometers. The status of the research and the further developments are also presented.