Robotics-Based Obstacle-Avoidance Systems for the Blind and Visually Impaired

Abstract

This article presents two novel travel aids for blind pedestrians. The two computerized devices are based on advanced mobile robotics obstacle avoidance technologies. The first aid -- the NavBelt -- is worn by the user like a belt and is equipped with an array of ultrasonic sensors. It provides, via a set of stereo earphones, acoustic signals that guide the user around obstacles, or "displays" a virtual acoustic panoramic image of the traveler's surroundings. One limitation of the NavBelt is that it is exceedingly difficult for the user to comprehend the guidance signals in time to allow fast walking.