THE UTILIZATION OF PHOTODIODE IN MAKING AN ENHANCED OCULUS CANE FOR VISUALLY IMPAIRED PEOPLE

Abstract

Vision impairment is a worldwide problem which significantly impacts quality of life of all ages. For this reason, this study aims to create an enhanced oculus cane which uses a photodiode to help the visually impaired people detect objects, and mobilize freely and safely. To assess its effectiveness, a PN photodiode was utilized which detects objects with programmed barcodes in various distances and sizes. Response time in identifying objects was tested together with the loudness of audio volume measured in decibel. The cane is used mainly in the household, wherein barcodes are scanned by a photodiode connected to a Bluetooth module and transmitter. The Bluetooth module and transmitter are linked to a digital amplifier audio board and double diaphragm speaker, which are used to verbally transmit the name of the object with barcode. The results proved the capabilities of the Oculus cane with 1.60 seconds response time, and scanning range in distances of 4 cm. (minimum) and 22 cm. (maximum), and the sizes of the barcodes 3 cm. and 5 cm. The loudness of the audio volume from the speaker of the Oculus cane was 82.7 dB, the safe level which will not cause damage to the ears. It is therefore recommended to use the enhanced oculus cane with photodiode as an alternative to existing smart canes which is more affordable and offers features which will greatly help visually impaired people live an independent and safe life.