chapter 1

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CHAPTER ONE CHAPTER ONE

1.0

1.0 INTRODUCTIONINTRODUCTION Technology

Technology is is the the making, making, modificatiomodification, n, usagusage e and knowledge of tools, machines, techniques,and knowledge of tools, machines, techniques, crafts,

crafts, systems, methods systems, methods of of organization organization in in order order to to solve solve a a problemproblem, , improve improve a a preexistingpreexisting solution to the problem, achieve a goal or perform a specific function. It can also be referred solution to the problem, achieve a goal or perform a specific function. It can also be referred to the collection of such tools, machinery, modifications, arrangements and procedures. to the collection of such tools, machinery, modifications, arrangements and procedures. Technologies significantly affect human as well as other animal species' ability to control and Technologies significantly affect human as well as other animal species' ability to control and ad

adapapt tt to tho theieir nar natuturaral el envnvirirononmmenentsts. Th. The tere term cam can n eieithther er be be aa pp pp ll ii ee d gd g ee nn ee rr aa ll ll y y oo r r tt oo specific

specific areas: areas: exaexamplmples es include include construction construction technology, technology, medical medical technology, technology, andand inform

information ation technology. technology. Visual Visual impairment impairment is is the the loss loss of of vision vision (of (of a a person) person) or or aa significant limitation of visual capability

significant limitation of visual capability resulting from resulting from either either disease, disease, trauma, trauma, oror congenital or

congenital or degenerative degenerative conditions conditions that that cannot cannot be be corrected by corrected by conventional conventional means,means, such

such as as refractrefractive ive correction, correction, medication, medication, or or surgery. surgery. The The folfollowing lowing terms terms are are used used toto describe the different levels of visual impairment: Partially sighted which occurs as a result of describe the different levels of visual impairment: Partially sighted which occurs as a result of some type of visual problems. Low vision generally refers to a severe visual impairment, not some type of visual problems. Low vision generally refers to a severe visual impairment, not necessar

necessarily ily limited limited to to distance distance vision. vision. Low Low vision vision applies applies to to all all individuindividuals als who who are are unableunable to

to read read the newspaper the newspaper at a at a normal vinormal viewing ewing distance, even distance, even with with the the aid aid of of eyeglasses eyeglasses oror contact lenses. This can also be divided into two levels: Myopic - unable to see distant contact lenses. This can also be divided into two levels: Myopic - unable to see distant objects clearly, commonly called nearsighted or short- sighted, Hyperopic - unable to see objects clearly, commonly called nearsighted or short- sighted, Hyperopic - unable to see close objects clearly, commonly called far-sighted or long-sighted. Blindness is a total or close objects clearly, commonly called far-sighted or long-sighted. Blindness is a total or partial

partial inability inability to to see see due due to to somsome e physiological physiological or or neurological neurological deficits. deficits. The The levels levels ofof blindness are

blindness are scaled scaled according according to to the the exextent tent of of vision losvision loss. s. A A situation situation where one where one is is unable unable toto see forms or sense light is referred to as total blindness. The following are a few eye see forms or sense light is referred to as total blindness. The following are a few eye disorders which can lead to visual impairments; retinal degeneration, albinism, cataracts, and disorders which can lead to visual impairments; retinal degeneration, albinism, cataracts, and

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glaucoma, muscular problems that result in visual disturbances, corneal disorders, diabetic glaucoma, muscular problems that result in visual disturbances, corneal disorders, diabetic retinopathy, congenital disorders, and infection. For a visually impaired person to navigate an retinopathy, congenital disorders, and infection. For a visually impaired person to navigate an environment without human assistance, the person must have adequate information about the environment without human assistance, the person must have adequate information about the travel path

travel path and and also also be be able to able to detect detect obstacles obstacles witwith h in in his/her his/her navigation navigation range. Without anyrange. Without any form of assistance, most visually impaired people have to stress their other senses mostly the form of assistance, most visually impaired people have to stress their other senses mostly the ears in an attempt to detect any possible obstacles in their path.

ears in an attempt to detect any possible obstacles in their path.

Visually impaired individuals have a very important goal of moving through unfamiliar spaces Visually impaired individuals have a very important goal of moving through unfamiliar spaces or situations without any form of aid. For easy movement in both familiar and unfamiliar or situations without any form of aid. For easy movement in both familiar and unfamiliar environments,

environments, there there are are varivarious ous metmethods hods dd ee vv ii ss ee d d to to aiaid d visuvisually ally impaiimpaired red indivindividuaiduals,ls, examples of these methods are the use of walking canes, use of guide dogs which assist in examples of these methods are the use of walking canes, use of guide dogs which assist in navigation or by the help of another human with perfect sight. However, some of these navigation or by the help of another human with perfect sight. However, some of these methods have their shortcomings in terms of their efficiency. For example, the ordinary methods have their shortcomings in terms of their efficiency. For example, the ordinary walking stick is unable to detect obstacles in its path except by direct contact with the walking stick is unable to detect obstacles in its path except by direct contact with the obstacle. Also, the use of guide dogs is limited to environments the dog has been trained to obstacle. Also, the use of guide dogs is limited to environments the dog has been trained to navigate and any deviation from this trained environment will be dangerous to the individual. navigate and any deviation from this trained environment will be dangerous to the individual. Human guides can be a letdown at times because the guide might not be available at the time Human guides can be a letdown at times because the guide might not be available at the time his help is needed. This impedes the movement of the visually impaired person. All these his help is needed. This impedes the movement of the visually impaired person. All these shortcomings of some of the existing aids are the reason for developing an electronic walking shortcomings of some of the existing aids are the reason for developing an electronic walking aid that can help the visually impaired to navigate any environment without straining their aid that can help the visually impaired to navigate any environment without straining their other sense organs or depend on human guide. This is achieved through implementation of other sense organs or depend on human guide. This is achieved through implementation of design w

design which hich is capable of detecting obstacles is capable of detecting obstacles in the navigation in the navigation path path and and indicates indicates thethe direction of the obstacles to prevent the user of the walking aid from coming in contact with direction of the obstacles to prevent the user of the walking aid from coming in contact with the obstacles and hence preventing accidents.

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1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY 1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Vision is the most important part of human physiology as 83% of information human being gets Vision is the most important part of human physiology as 83% of information human being gets from the environment is via sight. The 2011 statistics by the World Health Organization (WHO) from the environment is via sight. The 2011 statistics by the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that there are 285 million people in world with visual impairment, 39 billion of which estimates that there are 285 million people in world with visual impairment, 39 billion of which are blind and 246 with low vision. The traditional and oldest mobility aids for persons with visual are blind and 246 with low vision. The traditional and oldest mobility aids for persons with visual impairments are the walking cane (also called white cane or stick) and guide dogs. The most impairments are the walking cane (also called white cane or stick) and guide dogs. The most important drawbacks of these aids are necessary skills and training phase, range of motion and important drawbacks of these aids are necessary skills and training phase, range of motion and very little information conveyed. With the rapid

very little information conveyed. With the rapid advances of modern technology, both in hardwareadvances of modern technology, both in hardware and software front have brought potential to provide intelligent navigation capabilities. Recently and software front have brought potential to provide intelligent navigation capabilities. Recently there has been a lot of Electronic Travel Aids (ETA) designed and devised to help the blind there has been a lot of Electronic Travel Aids (ETA) designed and devised to help the blind navigate independently and safely. Also high-end technological solutions have been introduced navigate independently and safely. Also high-end technological solutions have been introduced recently to help blind persons to navigate independently. Many blind guidance systems use recently to help blind persons to navigate independently. Many blind guidance systems use ultrasound because of its immunity to the environmental noise. Another reason why ultrasonic is ultrasound because of its immunity to the environmental noise. Another reason why ultrasonic is popular is that the

popular is that the technology is relatively inexpensive, and also technology is relatively inexpensive, and also ultrasound emitters and detectorsultrasound emitters and detectors are small enough to be carried without the need for complex circuit. Blind people have used canes are small enough to be carried without the need for complex circuit. Blind people have used canes as mobility tools for centuries, but it was not until after World War I that the white cane was as mobility tools for centuries, but it was not until after World War I that the white cane was introduced.

introduced.

1.2

1.2 STATEMENT STATEMENT OF OF THE THE PROBLEMSPROBLEMS

Many blind persons use the white stick to help their daily movement. The stick helps them to Many blind persons use the white stick to help their daily movement. The stick helps them to detect obstructions around them and to avoid them from danger.

detect obstructions around them and to avoid them from danger.

The function of the common walking stick usually used by the blind is limited. Therefore, there is The function of the common walking stick usually used by the blind is limited. Therefore, there is need to develop a new walking stick that can detect any obstacles before the user hit it with the need to develop a new walking stick that can detect any obstacles before the user hit it with the end of the stick.

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1.3

1.3 AIMS AIMS AND AND OBJECTIVES OBJECTIVES OF OF THE THE RESEARCHRESEARCH The objective of this project is

The objective of this project is to develop a smart walking stick that to develop a smart walking stick that can sense obstacles around thecan sense obstacles around the visually impaired person. The walking stick will be able to sense different distances between the visually impaired person. The walking stick will be able to sense different distances between the user and the obstacles for up to 120

user and the obstacles for up to 120 cmcm long.long.

In addition, the objective of this project is also to help the

In addition, the objective of this project is also to help the movement of blind person in movement of blind person in their dailytheir daily activities. Nevertheless, this project also targets to develop a low cost, study and robust walking activities. Nevertheless, this project also targets to develop a low cost, study and robust walking stick.

stick.

This project will

This project will fulfill the following objectives;fulfill the following objectives; 1.

1. To design an assistive technology for visually impaired people which can detect obstaclesTo design an assistive technology for visually impaired people which can detect obstacles and provide alternative ways

and provide alternative ways 2.

2. To alarm the user through speech (earphone/headphone) and vibration to determine theTo alarm the user through speech (earphone/headphone) and vibration to determine the obstacles direction sources.

obstacles direction sources. 3.

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1.4 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY 1.4 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY



 To enhance the mobility of blind people.To enhance the mobility of blind people.



 Protecting blind people from possible hazardProtecting blind people from possible hazard 

 Less costly product will be affordable for many people.Less costly product will be affordable for many people. 

 The system can be used The system can be used both indoor and outdoor navigation.both indoor and outdoor navigation. 

 Blind person’s location can be track Blind person’s location can be track ed whenever needed which will ensure additionaled whenever needed which will ensure additional safety.

safety. 

 Detects obstacles and alerts the blind person through vibration alert and speech output.Detects obstacles and alerts the blind person through vibration alert and speech output.

1.5 DEFINITION OF TERMS 1.5 DEFINITION OF TERMS

Ultrasonic Sensor

Ultrasonic Sensor: Ultrasonic sensor provides a very low-cost and easy method of distance: Ultrasonic sensor provides a very low-cost and easy method of distance measurement. This sensor is perfect for any number of applications that require you to perform measurement. This sensor is perfect for any number of applications that require you to perform measurements between moving or stationary objects. Naturally, robotics applications are very measurements between moving or stationary objects. Naturally, robotics applications are very popular

popular but but you'll you'll also also find find this this product product to to be be useful useful in in security security systems systems or or as as an an infraredinfrared replacement if so desired.

replacement if so desired.

Microcontroller (ATMEGA328)

Microcontroller (ATMEGA328):A microcontroller (sometimes abbreviated µC, uC or MCU) is:A microcontroller (sometimes abbreviated µC, uC or MCU) is a small computer on a single integrated circuit containing a processor core, memory, and a small computer on a single integrated circuit containing a processor core, memory, and programmable i

programmable input/output peripnput/output peripherals.herals. Vibration:

Vibration: a movement back and forth, or an a movement back and forth, or an emotion sensed by another person. An example of aemotion sensed by another person. An example of a vibration

vibration is the feeling of two cymbals being. is the feeling of two cymbals being. Sensor:

Sensor: a mechanical device sensitive to light, temperature, radiation level, or the like, thata mechanical device sensitive to light, temperature, radiation level, or the like, that transmits a signal to a measuring or control instrument.

transmits a signal to a measuring or control instrument. Visualization:

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images that can aid in understanding the

images that can aid in understanding the meaning meaning of the data of the data Blind:

Blind: the state or condition of being unable to see because of injury, disease, or a congenitalthe state or condition of being unable to see because of injury, disease, or a congenital condition.

condition. Obstruction:

Obstruction:something that obstructs, blocks, or closes up with an something that obstructs, blocks, or closes up with an obstacle or obstacles; obstacleobstacle or obstacles; obstacle or hindrance:

or hindrance:

1.6

1.6 CHAPTER SUMMARYCHAPTER SUMMARY

Chapter one covers the introduction, background, statement of problem, aims and objectives, Chapter one covers the introduction, background, statement of problem, aims and objectives, significance of the study, scope and limitations of the study and

significance of the study, scope and limitations of the study and definition of terms.definition of terms. Chapter two covers the literature review and the

Chapter two covers the literature review and the review of related works.review of related works. Chapter three covers the methods of data

Chapter three covers the methods of data collection and the materials used for the collection and the materials used for the work.work. Chapter four covers the

Chapter four covers the implementatimplementation, Results and analysis of ion, Results and analysis of project.project. Chapter five covers the

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CHAPTER TWO

2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW

Traditionally ultrasonic walking stick is the most popular, simplest tool for detecting obstacles Traditionally ultrasonic walking stick is the most popular, simplest tool for detecting obstacles due to its low cost, portability. It enables user to effectively scan the area in front and detect due to its low cost, portability. It enables user to effectively scan the area in front and detect obstacles on the ground like holes, steps, walls, uneven surfaces, downstairs etc .but it can only obstacles on the ground like holes, steps, walls, uneven surfaces, downstairs etc .but it can only be

be used used to to detect detect obstacles obstacles up up to to knee-level. knee-level. Its Its detection detection range range is is limited limited up up to to 1-2 1-2 feet feet only.only. Certain obstacles (e.g. protruding windowpanes, raised platforms, a moving vehicle, horizontal Certain obstacles (e.g. protruding windowpanes, raised platforms, a moving vehicle, horizontal bars) cannot be

bars) cannot be detected until they detected until they are dangerously are dangerously close to the persclose to the person. Even dog gon. Even dog guides are veryuides are very capable to guide these persons but they are unable to detect potentially hazardous obstacles at capable to guide these persons but they are unable to detect potentially hazardous obstacles at head level. Several solutions have been proposed in the recent years to increase the mobility and head level. Several solutions have been proposed in the recent years to increase the mobility and safety of visually impaired persons. It uses sonar technology to identify the position of user by safety of visually impaired persons. It uses sonar technology to identify the position of user by mounting ultras

mounting ultrasonic modules on onic modules on ceiling at regular iceiling at regular intervals. ntervals. This system This system is portable, easy is portable, easy toto operate and is not affected by environmental changes. However, this system is limited only for operate and is not affected by environmental changes. However, this system is limited only for indoor naviga

indoor navigation because it tion because it requires derequires detailed interior tailed interior map of the map of the building. building. Another real-timeAnother real-time technology developed to alert visually impaired user by the presence of static / dynamic technology developed to alert visually impaired user by the presence of static / dynamic obstacles in a few meters surrounding, which works without depending on any Smartphone, obstacles in a few meters surrounding, which works without depending on any Smartphone, uses camera for background motion detection. This system is robust to complex camera and uses camera for background motion detection. This system is robust to complex camera and background motion and does not required any prior knowledge about the obstacle size, shape or background motion and does not required any prior knowledge about the obstacle size, shape or position.

position. This This camera-basecamera-based d image image processing system processing system can can be be a a better better option option but but it it requires requires lotlot processing pow

processing power and hence syer and hence system becomes bstem becomes bulky, costly aulky, costly and it must be trand it must be transportable.nsportable.

2.1 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURES

Voice operated outdoor navigation system for visually

Voice operated outdoor navigation system for visually impaired persons done byimpaired persons done by Somnath andSomnath and

Ravi (2012).

Ravi (2012). UsesUses a stick equipped with ultra-sonic sensors, GPS and audioa stick equipped with ultra-sonic sensors, GPS and audio output system. Theoutput system. The

stick contains GPS which will have SD memory card which used to store different locations.

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The user

The user can set the location by voice and the GPS will guide the personcan set the location by voice and the GPS will guide the person to his/her distention.to his/her distention.

This system will also provide the speed

This system will also provide the speed and the remaining distance to reach the distention.and the remaining distance to reach the distention.

When the

When the ultra-sonic sensors detect any obstacle directly the voiceultra-sonic sensors detect any obstacle directly the voice system will activate thesystem will activate the

caution voice. This system can be

caution voice. This system can be classified as a low cost system affordable by the user. Inclassified as a low cost system affordable by the user. In

addition to that, it can provide a voice guide for the user with

addition to that, it can provide a voice guide for the user with greatest possible accuracy.greatest possible accuracy. TheThe

system uses the ARM

system uses the ARM processor which has more memory space, so that theprocessor which has more memory space, so that the operatingoperating

speed is high. However, this system cannot

speed is high. However, this system cannot operate indoors because there will be no signaloperate indoors because there will be no signal

for the GPS

for the GPS system. The accuracy of the GPS signal need to besystem. The accuracy of the GPS signal need to be improved because it onlyimproved because it only

can be controlled within 5 meters

can be controlled within 5 meters radios.radios. Finally, the blind person needs to be trained on theFinally, the blind person needs to be trained on the

system so that he

system so that he or she can or she can use it effectively.use it effectively.

“Blind

“Blind audio Guidance audio Guidance system”system” is based on embedded is based on embedded system, uses ultrasonic sensor forsystem, uses ultrasonic sensor for distance measurement,

distance measurement, IR sensor for object detection and AVR sound system for IR sensor for object detection and AVR sound system for audioaudio instructions. The main functions of this system are

instructions. The main functions of this system are environment recognition and path detection.environment recognition and path detection. Ultrasonic

Ultrasonic sensors receive visual information and this visualsensors receive visual information and this visual information is transformed intoinformation is transformed into auditory information. To

auditory information. To represent the information about the position of obstaclesrepresent the information about the position of obstacles audioaudio components of intensity, frequency, binaural phase

components of intensity, frequency, binaural phase difference are used. This signaldifference are used. This signal transformation system

transformation system reduces the training time required to use a white cane.reduces the training time required to use a white cane. However, onlyHowever, only issue of this system is the difficulty to

issue of this system is the difficulty to knowknow one’sone’s location globally. location globally.

Another study in the same field to help blind people uses the

Another study in the same field to help blind people uses the pulse echo pulse echo technique in technique in order order toto

provide

provide a a warning warning sound sound whenwhen detecting the obstacles. This technique is used by the Uniteddetecting the obstacles. This technique is used by the United

States military for locating the submarines. They used pulse of

States military for locating the submarines. They used pulse of ultrasound range from 21 KHz toultrasound range from 21 KHz to

50 KHz which hit the hard

50 KHz which hit the hard surface to generate echo pulses. By calculating the differencesurface to generate echo pulses. By calculating the difference

between signals

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user and the obstacles. This

user and the obstacles. This system is very sensitive in terms of detecting the obstacles. Itsystem is very sensitive in terms of detecting the obstacles. It has ahas a

detection range up to 3 meters and a detection angle 0 to

detection range up to 3 meters and a detection angle 0 to 45 degree.45 degree. However, this systemHowever, this system

requires more power to

requires more power to operate because of the transmitter and receiver circuits. So,operate because of the transmitter and receiver circuits. So, thisthis

system needs to be re-designed to operate with less

system needs to be re-designed to operate with less power consumption. Anon, N.D.power consumption. Anon, N.D.

Another study done by Jayant,

Another study done by Jayant, Pratik and Pratik and Mita, (Mita, (2012) proposed a s2012) proposed a smart mart cane asscane assistedisted

mobility for the visually

mobility for the visually impaired. The system is based on normal ultrasonic sensorsimpaired. The system is based on normal ultrasonic sensors andand

ATMEL microcontroller. It operates with two rechargeable

ATMEL microcontroller. It operates with two rechargeable battery battery (7.4v) (7.4v) it it can can be be recharrechargedged

using USB cable or AC

using USB cable or AC adaptor. The control unit is programed using ATMEL AVR adaptor. The control unit is programed using ATMEL AVR

microcontroller ATMEGA328P microcontroller. Once any

microcontroller ATMEGA328P microcontroller. Once any obstacles are detected vibration andobstacles are detected vibration and

buzzer will s

buzzer will start in order tart in order toto warn the user. This system is a non-complex system to use. Itwarn the user. This system is a non-complex system to use. It has thehas the

ability to cover a distance up to 3 meters and has the

ability to cover a distance up to 3 meters and has the rechargeable feature of the battery. Also,rechargeable feature of the battery. Also,

this system can be

this system can be folded in small piece so that the user can carry it easily.folded in small piece so that the user can carry it easily. However, thisHowever, this

system has only one direction detection

system has only one direction detection coverage and it is inaccurate in detecting thecoverage and it is inaccurate in detecting the

obstacles.

All the studies which had been reviewed show that, there are

All the studies which had been reviewed show that, there are many techniques of making amany techniques of making a

smart sticks for blind people.

smart sticks for blind people. However, the study conclusion shows that, using the ultra-However, the study conclusion shows that, using the

ultra-sonic sensors would be an efficient solution to detect the

sonic sensors would be an efficient solution to detect the obstacles with maximum range ofobstacles with maximum range of

10cm

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CHAPTER THREE CHAPTER THREE METHODOLOGY

METHODOLOGY

3.1 DEFINITION OF

3.1 DEFINITION OF METHODOLOGMETHODOLOGYY

Research methodology is the study of how to perform scientific research. It is part Research methodology is the study of how to perform scientific research. It is part of any analysis or research that is used to find out about the type of data that is to of any analysis or research that is used to find out about the type of data that is to be

be maintain, maintain, how how it it is is found, found, how how it it is is operate operate and and how how it it is is recorded. recorded. With With thisthis structured system analysis and design methodology which is internationally structured system analysis and design methodology which is internationally accepted software engineering model, I was able to achieve a wonderful hardware accepted software engineering model, I was able to achieve a wonderful hardware design which is one of

design which is one of main purpose of embarking on this project.main purpose of embarking on this project.

3.2 MATERIALS USED 3.2 MATERIALS USED

3.2.1 Ultrasonic Range Sensor 3.2.1 Ultrasonic Range Sensor

Ultrasonic Sensor Ultrasonic sensors (also known as transceivers when they both Ultrasonic Sensor Ultrasonic sensors (also known as transceivers when they both send and receive) work on a principle similar to radar or sonar which evaluate send and receive) work on a principle similar to radar or sonar which evaluate attributes of a target by interpreting the echoes from radio or sound waves attributes of a target by interpreting the echoes from radio or sound waves respectively. Ultrasonic sensor

respectively. Ultrasonic sensors generate high frequency sound waves s generate high frequency sound waves and evaluateand evaluate the echo which is received back by the sensor. Sensors calculate the time interval the echo which is received back by the sensor. Sensors calculate the time interval between sending

between sending the signal the signal and and receiving the receiving the echo to echo to determine the determine the distance to distance to anan object. This technology can be used for measuring: wind speed and direction object. This technology can be used for measuring: wind speed and direction (anemometer), fullness of a tank and speed through air or water. For measuring (anemometer), fullness of a tank and speed through air or water. For measuring speed or direction a device uses multiple detectors and calculates the speed from speed or direction a device uses multiple detectors and calculates the speed from the relative distances to particulates in the air or water. To measure the amount of the relative distances to particulates in the air or water. To measure the amount of liquid in a tank,

liquid in a tank, the sensor measures the distance to the surface of the the sensor measures the distance to the surface of the fluid. Furtherfluid. Further applications include: humidifiers, sonar, medical ultra sonography, burglar alarms applications include: humidifiers, sonar, medical ultra sonography, burglar alarms and non-destructive testing. Systems typically use a transducer which generates and non-destructive testing. Systems typically use a transducer which generates sound waves in the ultrasonic range, above 18,000 hertz, by turning electrical sound waves in the ultrasonic range, above 18,000 hertz, by turning electrical

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energy into sound, then upon receiving the echo turn the sound waves into energy into sound, then upon receiving the echo turn the sound waves into electrical energy which can be measured and displayed. The technology is limited electrical energy which can be measured and displayed. The technology is limited by

by the the shapes shapes of of surfaces surfaces and and the the density density or or consistency consistency of of the the material. material. ForFor example foam on the surface of a fluid in a tank could distort a reading.

example foam on the surface of a fluid in a tank could distort a reading.

Ultrasonic Sensor

3.2.2 Microcontroller (Promini Arduino)

The

The Arduino Pro MiniArduino Pro Mini is an ATmega168 based microcontroller board. The board is an ATmega168 based microcontroller board. The board

comes with built-in arduino bootloader. It has 14 digital input/output pins (of

which 6 can be used as PWM outputs), 8 analog inputs, an on-board resonator, a

reset button, and holes for mounting pin headers. The board can be connected to

the PC using USB port and the board can runs on USB power. There are two

version of the Pro Mini. One runs at 3.3V and 8 MHz, the other at 5V

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Diagram of an Arduino pro mini

Arduino Pro Mini DETAILS Arduino Pro Mini DETAILS

Microcontroller ATmega168

Operating

Operating Voltage Voltage 3.3V 3.3V or or 5V5V Input Voltage

Input Voltage 3.35 -12 V (3.3V model) or 5 - 12 V3.35 -12 V (3.3V model) or 5 - 12 V (5V model)

(5V model) Digital

Digital I/O I/O Pins Pins 14 14 (of (of which which 6 6 provide provide PWM PWM output)output) Analog

Analog Input Input Pins Pins 88 DC

DC Current Current per per I/O I/O Pin Pin 40 40 MaMa Flash Memory

Flash Memory 16 KB (of which 2 KB used by16 KB (of which 2 KB used by bootloader)

bootloader) SRAM

SRAM 1 1 KBKB

EEPROM

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Clock Speed

Clock Speed 8 8 MHz MHz (3.3V (3.3V model) model) or or 16 16 MHz MHz (5V(5V model)

model)

Arduino Pro Mini PINOUT Arduino Pro Mini PINOUT RAW

RAW For supplying a raw (regulated) voltageFor supplying a raw (regulated) voltage to the board

to the board VCC

VCC The The regulated regulated 3.3 3.3 or or 5 5 volt volt supplysupply GND

GND Ground Ground pinspins

RX

RX Used Used to to receive receive TTL TTL serial serial datadata TX

TX Used Used to to transmit transmit TTL TTL serial serial datadata

2 and 3 2 and 3

Digital I/O pins. These pins can also be Digital I/O pins. These pins can also be configured to trigger an interrupt on a configured to trigger an interrupt on a low value, a rising or falling edge, or a low value, a rising or falling edge, or a change in value

change in value 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, and

3, 5, 6, 9, 10, and 1111 Digital I/O pins. They can also beDigital I/O pins. They can also be configured to provide 8-bit PWM output configured to provide 8-bit PWM output

10, 11, 12 and 13 10, 11, 12 and 13

Digital I/O pins. They can also be Digital I/O pins. They can also be configured as SPI pins;

configured as SPI pins;

10 - (SS), 11 - (MOSI), 12 - (MISO) 10 - (SS), 11 - (MOSI), 12 - (MISO) and 13 - (SCK)

and 13 - (SCK) A0

A0 to to A3 A3 Analog Analog input input pinspins

A4 and A5. A4 and A5.

Analog input pins. They can also be Analog input pins. They can also be used as IIC pins;

used as IIC pins; A4 - (SDA) and A5

A4 - (SDA) and A5 – – (SCL). (SCL). A6

A6 and and A7 A7 Analog Analog input input pinspins Reset

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bringing this pin low bringing this pin low

3.2.3 Voltage Regulator 3.2.3 Voltage Regulator

This is the basic LM7805 voltage regulator, a three-terminal positive regulator

with a 5V fixed output voltage. This fixed regulator provides a local regulation,

internal current limiting, thermal shut-down control, and safe area protection for

your project. Each one of these voltage regulators can output a max current of

1.5A.

The LM7805, like most other regulators, is a three-pin IC. The LM7805, like most other regulators, is a three-pin IC. Pin 1

Pin 1 (Input Pin): The Input pin is the pin that accepts the incoming DC voltage, (Input Pin): The Input pin is the pin that accepts the incoming DC voltage, which the voltage regulator will eventually regulate down to 5 volts. which the voltage regulator will eventually regulate down to 5 volts. Pin 2

Pin 2 (Ground): (Ground): Ground Ground pin pin establishes the establishes the ground ground for for the the regulator.regulator. Pin 3

Pin 3 (Output Pin): The Output pin is (Output Pin): The Output pin is the regulated 5 volts DC.the regulated 5 volts DC.

Diagram of LM7805 Diagram of LM7805

3.2.4 BUZZER 3.2.4 BUZZER

The Piezo buzzer produces sound based on reverse of the piezoelectric effect. The Piezo buzzer produces sound based on reverse of the piezoelectric effect. The

The generation of pressure variation or generation of pressure variation or strain by the application of strain by the application of electricelectric potential acr

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can be used to alert

can be used to alert a user of an event ca user of an event corresponding to a switching action,orresponding to a switching action, counter signal or sensor input. They are also used in alarm circuits.

counter signal or sensor input. They are also used in alarm circuits.

The buzzer produces a same noisy sound irrespective of the voltage variation The buzzer produces a same noisy sound irrespective of the voltage variation applied

applied to it. It consists to it. It consists of piezo crystals between two conductors. When aof piezo crystals between two conductors. When a potential is

potential is applied applied across these across these crystalcrystals s they push they push on on one one conductor and conductor and pull pull onon the other. This, push and pull action, results in a sound wave. Most buzzers the other. This, push and pull action, results in a sound wave. Most buzzers produce sound in the range 2

produce sound in the range 2 to 4 to 4 kHz.kHz.

Diagram of Buzzer Diagram of Buzzer

3.2.5 LED 3.2.5 LED

LED A light-emitting diode (LED) is

LED A light-emitting diode (LED) is a semiconductor light source. LEDs are a semiconductor light source. LEDs are usedused as indicator lamps in many devices, and are increasingly used for lighting. When a as indicator lamps in many devices, and are increasingly used for lighting. When a light-emitting diode is forward biased (switched on), electrons are able to light-emitting diode is forward biased (switched on), electrons are able to recombine with holes within the device, releasing energy in the

recombine with holes within the device, releasing energy in the form of photons.form of photons.

D

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3.2.6 VIBRATOR MOTOR 3.2.6 VIBRATOR MOTOR

A vibrating motor is essentially a motor that is improperly balanced. In other

words, there is an off-centered weight attached to the motor's rotational shaft that

causes the motor to wobble. The amount of wobble can be changed by the amount

of weight that you attach, the weight's distance from the shaft, and the speed at

which the motor spins.

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3.2.1 INSTRUMENT FOR DATA COLLECTION 3.2.1 INSTRUMENT FOR DATA COLLECTION

Data collection

Data collection can be defined as any collection of data either by interview can be defined as any collection of data either by interview method or by reference to written text which enables the software developer to method or by reference to written text which enables the software developer to have the necessary information required in the

have the necessary information required in the development of aparticular softwaredevelopment of aparticular software and also to enable him updates his database. The data may be in the form of text, and also to enable him updates his database. The data may be in the form of text, numbers, or encoded graphics.

numbers, or encoded graphics.

There are two methods of collecting data which There are two methods of collecting data which are:are:



 Primary Data CollectionPrimary Data Collection

The idea of the proposed system came into existence because of a short visit to a The idea of the proposed system came into existence because of a short visit to a blind

blind school. school. It It was was seen seen that that the the individuals individuals were were given given training training to to walk walk with with aa stick along a fixed path every day with a person to guide each of them. The stick along a fixed path every day with a person to guide each of them. The inception of the project was marked by the conversations held with the blind inception of the project was marked by the conversations held with the blind people

people in in the the school and school and their their staff. staff. The data The data collected was collected was indicative of indicative of the the factsfacts and miseries of their daily life. The visual disability made them incapable of doing and miseries of their daily life. The visual disability made them incapable of doing any kind of simple chores independently. This laid us to research on the already any kind of simple chores independently. This laid us to research on the already existing technologies and conduct literature survey. The existing systems as existing technologies and conduct literature survey. The existing systems as highlighted above had some disadvantages so we have tried to design a system highlighted above had some disadvantages so we have tried to design a system which aims to eliminate few of

which aims to eliminate few of the disadvantages.the disadvantages.



 Secondary Data CollectionSecondary Data Collection information

information obtained throbtained through secondary ough secondary sources which sources which include data colinclude data collected forlected for published

published and and unpublished unpublished journals, journals, books books , , magazines magazines etc etc it it also also includeinclude information gotten from the internet that were not originally collected by the information gotten from the internet that were not originally collected by the researcher . Data collection of this type, however lack originality because of high researcher . Data collection of this type, however lack originality because of high

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probability

probability of of information information being being out out of of date date out out and and might might not not suit suit the the need need atat hand.

hand.

The method of data collection used for the

The method of data collection used for the success of this researchsuccess of this research 

 Reference to written textReference to written text 

 Website researchWebsite research 

 Library researchLibrary research



 Reference to Written TextReference to Written Text

Reference was also made to some existing documents; some materials were also Reference was also made to some existing documents; some materials were also downloaded from internet for reviewing the work.

downloaded from internet for reviewing the work. 

 Website Research:Website Research:

Different document on the World Wide Web (www) were reviewed to find Different document on the World Wide Web (www) were reviewed to find information, which was essential in

information, which was essential in writing the chapters and writing the chapters and software design.software design. 

 _{Library Research:}_{Library Research:}

Book, journals and magazines were reviewed to collect all necessary information, Book, journals and magazines were reviewed to collect all necessary information, which were also used in

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CHAPTER FOUR CHAPTER FOUR TESTING

TESTING

The following tests were carried out to determine the different responses of The following tests were carried out to determine the different responses of the

the components components that that makmake e up thup the e NavigaNavigation tion auxiliarauxiliary y for for the the visually visually impaireimpairedd

Obstruction Detection Test Obstruction Detection Test

With the

With the ultrasonic ultrasonic transmitter transmitter (TX) (TX) fixed fixed on on the mthe model odel board board and and thethe ultrasonic receiver (RX), the microcontroller is connected along with LED, the ultrasonic receiver (RX), the microcontroller is connected along with LED, the Motor vibrator and the Buzzer to indicate the distance and presence of an Motor vibrator and the Buzzer to indicate the distance and presence of an obstacle

obstacle respectively respectively if if any any is is detected. detected. These comThese components ponents are are poweredpowered from the 5V supply of the voltage regulator. An obstacle was put in front of from the 5V supply of the voltage regulator. An obstacle was put in front of the sensor, and it was observed that the LED turned on when the obstacle was the sensor, and it was observed that the LED turned on when the obstacle was put

put in in front also front also the vithe vibrator brator motor motor vibrates vibrates and and the the buzzer buzzer blew blew and and alarm alarm toto alert the presence of an obstacle.

alert the presence of an obstacle.

Light Detection Test Light Detection Test

The light dependent resistor is connected to a 100K resistor in a voltage divider The light dependent resistor is connected to a 100K resistor in a voltage divider network. The LDR is a variable resistor that has high resistance in low light network. The LDR is a variable resistor that has high resistance in low light conditions and low resistance in welllit situations. The LEDs are connected to conditions and low resistance in welllit situations. The LEDs are connected to a transistor that is switched on when the voltage divider network (LDR a transistor that is switched on when the voltage divider network (LDR included) generates the voltage required to turn on the LEDs. This circuit included) generates the voltage required to turn on the LEDs. This circuit arrangement was taken to a dark room with low light intensity, and it was arrangement was taken to a dark room with low light intensity, and it was observed that the LEDs were turned on and when the fluorescent tubes of the observed that the LEDs were turned on and when the fluorescent tubes of the room were turned

room were turned on, the on, the LELEDs turned off. This indicatDs turned off. This indicates that es that that the Lthat the LEDEDss are turned on b

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CHAPTER FIVE CHAPTER FIVE

EXPECTATION EXPECTATION

The ultrasonic stick system is mainly aiming at novel approach towards designing The ultrasonic stick system is mainly aiming at novel approach towards designing and developing a blind walking stick in order to assist blind person to move on and developing a blind walking stick in order to assist blind person to move on different surface and in different path. By the means of creating fusion between different surface and in different path. By the means of creating fusion between visual sensing technologies, object finding technology and the voice guidance visual sensing technologies, object finding technology and the voice guidance technology.

technology.

CONCLUSION CONCLUSION

The advancement of walking stick for the blind can be implemented using several The advancement of walking stick for the blind can be implemented using several ways of distance measurement detection. Ultrasonic range sensor and infrared ways of distance measurement detection. Ultrasonic range sensor and infrared sensor are examples of sensors that are appropriate for the system. However, sensor are examples of sensors that are appropriate for the system. However, ultrasonic range sensor is more suitable to be implemented due to

ultrasonic range sensor is more suitable to be implemented due to several factors.several factors. The ultrasonic range sensor is used in this project because it is small, light in The ultrasonic range sensor is used in this project because it is small, light in weight and consumer less power compared to infrared sensor. It also is less weight and consumer less power compared to infrared sensor. It also is less affected by some materials or by colour. The infrared sensor is easily affected by affected by some materials or by colour. The infrared sensor is easily affected by sunlight and dark materials. Besides, it is capable of detecting objects within sunlight and dark materials. Besides, it is capable of detecting objects within 100cm.

100cm.

The ultrasonic sensors used in this project are placed at above-knee and The ultrasonic sensors used in this project are placed at above-knee and below-knee positions to detect the obstacles in the user path. This method is very helpful knee positions to detect the obstacles in the user path. This method is very helpful for the blind especially when they are