An Integrated IoT Smart Cane for the Blind and Visually Impaired Individuals

Abstract

The advancement of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies has paved the way for innovative solutions in various domains, including assisting visually impaired and blind (VIB) individuals. Smart canes with IoT capabilities enhance safety by providing real-time information about the user's surroundings, enabling them to avoid obstacles and potential hazards. This scientific article develops an intelligent cane for visually impaired and blind (VIB) people integrated with an IoT system. This smart device promotes independence and confidence for VIB individuals. The smart cane was designed using SolidWorks 3D modelling software. It detects water, obstacles, and fire. The IoT smart cane employs ultrasonic sensors to help VIB users go up and down the stairs and detect obstacles. The system is controlled via the Arduino module. The cane automatically notifies VIB users when it detects hazards. The family tracks the individual through the fixed MCU Node that sends the navigation to the family smartphone on the Blynk application. The system is calibrated versus different objects, and the blind location is sent to the family successfully through the Blynk mobile Application.