Implementing and testing an ultrasonic sensor based mobility aid for a visually impaired person

This paper describes the findings of a student project that is aimed at helping to improve the quality of life for visually impaired people with an innovative and affordable solution. The project goal was to implement a cost effective prototype of a light, wearable head mounted device with sensors for aiding the mobility of visually impaired people in Bangladesh. The prototype consists of ultrasonic sensors powered by a rechargeable battery and an Arduino processor to control signals in the presence of obstacles. The sensors and Arduino were implemented on a Virtual Reality Box which was worn by a visually impaired person to detect obstacles along the path. The detection was conveyed with vibrations from a motor to caution the person of nearby obstacles. The prototype was successfully implemented and tested for variable parameters of consequence such as range and optimum response time.