Obstacle classification through acoustic echolocation

Abstract

A visually impaired person comes across objects with different attributes in his navigational path, and all of those objects can't be considered as obstacles. One person's obstacle could become a landmark for another. Therefore, getting some insights about the features of the obstacles that come across will provide a significant impact on improving the navigational process of the visually impaired individuals. In this study, a wearable obstacle classification system which extends the currently available obstacle detection approaches using sonar echolocation has been developed. In order to increase the detection range and to improve user-friendliness, an innovative approach based on integration of electronics onto textile environment has been studied. Optimum architecture to embed electronic equipment's and sensors to the textile has been realized. Finally, a smart garment prototype including ultrasonic sensors, coin vibration motors, power supplies and a micro controller has been developed.