AN EFFECTIVE INSOLES SHOES FOR BLIND PEOPLE FOR MOBILITY ASSISTANCE

Abstract

Our eyes play a significant role in our daily life. Given that it allows us to perceive the world around us, eyesight is arguably the most precious gift we may possess. Some individuals, meanwhile, have difficulties with vision that make it difficult for them to envision such objects. Such people will have trouble moving about freely in public areas.  Detecting elevation changes is a crucial component of mobile accessibility. These include obstacles like steps, curbs, and potholes that alter the level of the ground or a floor which is widespread in indoor as well as outdoor environments. In order to traverse these shifts safely and successfully, blind or visually impaired people must be able to recognize them and gauge their distance from one another and their extent. This requires the ability to perceive depth, which can be difficult for people with visual problems. The objective of this research is to develop a smart footwear that offers assistance in ascending and descending staircases by utilizing an IMU sensor to detect the user's movements. Prior to the development of a controller, the system undergoes mathematical and physical modelling. The process of mathematical modelling is carried out with consideration of the mobility patterns of individuals with visual impairments. The smart footwear was designed using Solidwork software to create a 3D virtual model. Furthermore, the shoe is designed to incorporate ultrasonic sensors that detect obstacles or barriers, and subsequently notify users through vibrations. As a consequence, the intelligent footwear is capable of unlocking the heels in response to the detection of low or high elevation, and emitting vibrations in the event of an obstacle being detected in its path.  The expectation is that the utilization of this device will enhance the self-assurance of individuals with visual impairment to ambulate autonomously.