Aid System Providing Route Information and Instruction for the Blind by Mobile Phone with GPS

Abstract

This project aims to develop a versatile and user friendly system to aid the blind using mobile phone and global positioning system (GPS). In the past year, a prototype system has been developed. The blind person carries his mobile phone with GPS service. When GPS signal is desired, he can send the GPS information through the wireless network to a server in the internet in order to get the location information. He can also set a route or even use a route to reach his destination. However, the instructions for the users are not clear enough and the location information is not accurate enough because GPS signal is inaccurate in urban environment with high rise buildings. The aim of this project is to further develop and improve the versatility and friendliness of the system. The following improvements have been implemented. Firstly, a friendlier user interface is developed for the blind users. Secondly, information and voice instruction are better utilized for the blind person to avoid confusion. Thirdly, a way is provided for users or volunteers with normal vision to upload extra location information to the server in order to inform the blind people with additional useful information details beside those provided by Google Map. Fourthly, the user may now set a new route beforehand in the computer. Finally, the new system also provides way for users to choose a destination by categories.