A Survey on Recent Advances in AI and Vision-Based Methods for Helping and Guiding Visually Impaired People

Abstract

We present in this paper the state of the art and an analysis of recent research work and achievements performed in the domain of AI-based and vision-based systems for helping blind and visually impaired people (BVIP). We start by highlighting the recent and tremendous importance that AI has acquired following the use of convolutional neural networks (CNN) and their ability to solve image classification tasks efficiently. After that, we also note that VIP have high expectations about AI-based systems as a possible way to ease the perception of their environment and to improve their everyday life. Then, we set the scope of our survey: we concentrate our investigations on the use of CNN or related methods in a vision-based system for helping BVIP. We analyze the existing surveys, and we study the current work (a selection of 30 case studies) using several dimensions such as acquired data, learned models, and human–computer interfaces. We compare the different approaches, and conclude by analyzing future trends in this domain.

Using Portable Virtual Reality to Assess Mobility of Blind and Low-Vision Individuals With the Audomni Sensory Supplementation Feedback

“…Perception volume/speed (16) Physically easier (11) for [Understanding the tested aid is mentally, less-more difficult], with a great majority saying more difficult, but with a median of only slightly more difficult.…”

“…Further, it is quite rare to assess the user experience or aid acceptance of BLV individuals themselves [8], [10], [13], [15]- [17]. This is likely due to the last and critical point: that actual blind and low-vision participants are much too often entirely neglected in tests, and when included, it is most frequently in inadequate numbers [8], [10], [11], [15], [17], [22]- [24].…”

VI-Assist Using AI for Visually Impaired Person

“…The overarching goal of Vi-Assist is not just assistance but empowerment. The application strives to elevate the standard of living for visually impaired individuals by promoting confidence, independence, and a sense of self-assurance through its multifaceted features [3] . In summary, Vi-Assist stands as a testament to the transformative power of technology, fostering inclusivity and enhancing the lives of those with visual impairments through its innovative and holistic approach [4].…”

A Survey on Outdoor Navigation Applications for People With Visual Impairments

“…Even though human aspects are crucial in the design process of assistive technologies, there is frequently a disconnect between the requirements of PVI and the developed products. This results in PVI opting to reduce or avoid the use of assistive solutions [4], [5].…”