JI63: ASSISTIVE DISTANCE MEASUREMENT FOR BLIND AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED INDIVIDUALS

DARMESH A/L JAYAVANAN SJKT BEDONG

Blindness and visual impairment significantly impact an individual’s ability to navigate safely and independently. Traditional mobility aids, such as canes and guide dogs, provide assistance but have limitations in detecting obstacles at varying distances. To address this issue, our research focuses on developing an assistive distance measurement for blind and visually impaired individuals  that enhances spatial awareness for visually impaired individuals. The system utilizes ultrasonic sensors to detect obstacles and measure distances, providing real-time feedback through auditory or vibratory alerts. This allows users to gauge their surroundings more effectively, reducing the risk of collisions and improving overall mobility. The methodology involves integrating microcontrollers with sensors to process distance data and deliver intuitive feedback to the user. The device is designed to be compact, lightweight, and cost-effective, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of users. Initial testing of the prototype demonstrated accurate distance detection and timely alerts, proving its potential in real-world applications. The results indicate that this assistive technology can serve as an effective aid for visually impaired individuals, complementing existing mobility tools and enhancing their independence. In conclusion, the proposed system offers a practical and innovative solution for safer navigation. Future improvements may include AI-driven obstacle recognition and GPS integration to further refine its capabilities. This research contributes to the growing field of assistive technology, aiming to improve the quality of life for visually impaired individuals through advanced distance measurement solutions.