Blind assistant navigation system

Abstract

This paper presents the architecture as well as the implementation of a system that helps blind person navigate independently within an enclosed environment such as the home. The system uses a wireless mesh network to provide the first level localization. It also incorporates additional components to provide more refined location and orientation information. Optimal path planning is done by a server that communicates wirelessly with the portable mobile unit that can be pushed by the blind person. The blind person issues commands and receives direction responses using audio signals.