Electronic cane supported with artificial vision

Visually impaired people often use a white cane to improve their mobility. The electronic cane was created with the aim to increase the capabilities of traditional canes and thus enhance the people's move and safety. This device features the following characteristics: (i) an obstacle detection system that vibrates to indicate the distance of the object, (ii) a location system using a Global Positioning System (GPS) and a Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) that sends a message with the location of the person in real time. When opening the message, the contact receives the link that binds with Google Maps. The system also includes an artificial vision system for identifying the information and signage set in the surrounding places to improve orientation with audio indications that guide people in safe places. The tests were applied on students with visual impairments of the UNESCO Chair at the Salesian Polytechnic University where a total validation percentage of 89% was obtained for the use of the electronic cane compared to the traditional cane. All rights reserved.