SafeWalk : A tool for the visually impaired

Abstract: This thesis aims to implement a system called SafeWalk to help visually impaired people to sense obstacles in their path and provide them with more independence and more effortless life routines without any external help. SafeWalk is a low power consuming system designed to replace the daily used white cane. It consists of sensors, a buzzer, a vibrating motor, and a software application. The system will be installed on the user's shoe. It detects the objects in front of the user using an Ultrasonic sensor that measures the distance to the targeted object by transmitting sound waves. This will produce vibration in the shoe and causes the buzzer to start playing when the object gets closer. Similarly, using the provided application, signals will be received in the user's smartphone, which will begin to vibrate when the object is detected. The system works just as planned. The final prototype senses objects in the walking path very well. The connection to the app was strong and never disconnected while in use. The phone vibrates stronger if an object on the ground gets closer; if there is an object in the air, the buzzer and vibrator signal the user.