Description
Portable navigation and orientation system to assist visually impaired people to navigate unknown territories in real-time.

Core Prototype Features
The C.A.N.Es’ control module houses all the necessary components to process the A-GPS data. These components include:

• a wireless 802.11b Antenna for real-time data transfer with the A-GPS server
• a PIC micro controller as the central CPU
• a magnetic sensor/compass module to detect orientation
• two AAA rechargeable batteries
• an audio jack to connect the neck-brace audio amplifier

The outer shell contains the keys to activate the CANE. The user will place their hands naturally over the control module just as if they were holding a traditional cane and use their thumb to press on the built-in Braille switches. The first switch turns the system on or off while the second and third buttons gives the user navigation related information.

Innovation and Relevance
The C.A.N.E Navigation Assistant hopes to further improve the lives of the blind traveler; being able to access information about their location in space will enable a safer, more efficient way to move around unfamiliar urban spaces. The Design of C.A.N.E does not add any unnecessary information overflow that might interfere with the usual processing of the native senses (smell, tactile, kinesthetic). Every human-factor element is taken into consideration, such as the interaction, design and physical appearance of the device. The audio is strategically placed around the neck to keep the ears open to environmental sounds. The device feels close to a traditional C.A.N.E, which also facilitates familiarity and a user-friendly design. Since the system uses off-the-shelf technologies and inexpensive sensors, the cost to mass-produce this device is surprisingly low. Even the wireless 802.11b is an open-source standard available for anyone to use.

In conclusion, mobility applications currently available for the visually impaired are scarce, trivial and expensive. C.A.N.E utilizes a hybrid solution never before implemented in navigational systems targeted specifically for the blind community. This research thus far has shown that implementing this project will further enhance and assist those in need. There is nothing more satisfying than watching someone feel better about themselves in activities we normally take for granted.

Role

• Initial concept
• Collaborated to develop the interface
• Background research on Global Positioning and other relevant technology

Bibliography
Peter Dizikes. Lost and Found. Tracking device firms think future looks bright.
ABCnews.com, 2002

Dr Frank Van Diggelen. Global Locate Indoor Global Positioning System Chip Set and Services a report.
http://www.globallocate.com

Wireless Developer Network – Daily News
http://www.wirelessdevnet.com/news/2001/22/news2.html

SnapTrack Awarded Patent For Locating or Tracking Wireless Devices Via Internet
http://www.snaptrack.com/NewsRoom/1999/pr19990426mot.html

Bell Laboratories, Lucent Technologies. White Paper on A-GPS

http://www.lucent.com/livelink/090094038000e51f_White_paper.pdf

American Foundation for the Blind
http://www.afb.org

This project was in the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) Magazine, National Technical and Career Conference Issue, 2002. We were also finalist for the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) 2002 Technical Paper Competition in The Post Baccalaureates category (Sponsored by Intel).Considering the initial idea for this project popped into my head one day as I was coming out of the subway it was totally awesome to get some recognition for it. A blind person stopped me to ask for directions, but did not realize she was already in front of the building that she needed. As I walked away I started to think about that encounter; mentioned my idea to Alex and we started brainstorming some design ideas; this is the idea that evolved out of those few seconds. I would have loved to build a prototype for this project to see if it would have actually worked

Illustrations by Alex Polanco and Alexei Taylor. Unless otherwise noted.

Home