Ultrasonic Sight: Mindstorms® EV3 Wearable Device for Blind Navigators

Overview

Human Echolocation is a technique used by gifted blind individuals whereby they use sound waves echoing off of obstacles to inform themselves of their surroundings. This technique works similarly to RADAR and SONAR, and it allows them to navigate and function independently. However, the field of sensory substitution is a growing area in science which seeks to create technology that mimics the human senses. Until an artificial eyeball is created that can completely replicate human sight, or the means to correct optic nerves to completely restore a person’s sight are obtained, there are other innovative ways in which to aid blind individuals who have not mastered the human echolocation technique. The purpose of this project is to implement the principles of echolocation to create a wearable device which will aid blind users in navigating independently. For a first stage proof-of-concept prototype, this device uses EV3 ultrasonic sensors to detect obstacles in the environment. This device will be considered a success when I can efficiently navigate through different unknown rooms with obstacles at different levels while blindfolded and wearing the device. Future iterations could include wearability enhancements while remaining cost effective by leveraging commercial technologies such as automotive radar chipsets, which is a growing area to support advanced driver assistance systems, and active electronically steered antenna arrays.

Competition history

• JSHS 2022 Category not listed

Resources

• National JSHS abstract book ↗

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