Visual Assistance for the Blind (1999)

Blind people have to rely on a white cane to locate obstacles in their path. However, not all obstacles can be detected by this cane, and this may pose hazards for the blind person. This Visual Assistance device is equipped with electric sensors to overcome the problem.

An ultrasonic sensor placed on a hat worn by the user senses obstacles. On top of that, a photoelectric sensor is fixed to a cane to detect obstacles that are lower down, such as drains and curbs. When the sensors detect any obstruction, the built-in speaker on the hat will sound to alert the user.

The device allows blind people to travel more safely and independently by providing information about the obstacles in their surroundings.

View the DMR record here.

Resources:
Mohd. Syah Nazzir B. Muslim, Ong, S. L., Mohd. Arshad Mohd. Shariff & Muhd. Zaini B. Ismail. (1999). Development of a Visual Assistance for the Blind. Final Year Project Report, Temasek Polytechnic.