Design and Implementation of an Intelligent Cane, with Proximity Sensors, GPS Localization and GSM Feedback

Abstract

This paper describes the process of implementing an electronic system for the detection of different types of obstacles in a white cane, focused on improving the daily mobilization of people with visual disabilities. The system consists of an ultrasonic sensor implemented on a stepper motor, in order to detect possible obstacles, with a working range between 0.5 m and 5 m in distance and between 90° left and 90°right in detection, also, a sound module and a buzzer will be implemented in the handle of the cane, in order to alert the disabled person in an efficient way about possible obstacles that may occur around them. An Android application was also designed; the mobile application communicates with the White cane through a GPS and GSM module, to help locate the visually disabled person, in the place where he is, sending the Parameter of longitude and latitude, all in a text message, so that a relative can access to the application and visualizes through Google Maps the exact location of the disabled person that owns the smart cane.