Aid for the blind by mobile phone (Project I)

Abstract

This project aims to further develop to a more convenient and user-friendly system to the blind by using the android phone and global positioning system. GPS signal is so helpful to the blind because the blind can make use of GPS signal to know where they are. The GPS signal includes the current location information, such as streets and districts. However, GPS signal is inaccurate in urban environment due to high buildings in Hong Kong. This project further increases usability of the system by using Google Map. Firstly, a vibration property is added to the check location page. The users can either choose to receive or ignore the change of GPS signal. Secondly, a waypoint detail is added to the system. The users with normal vision can add the descriptions of landmark (e.g. buildings). When the users want to check the nearby buildings, they can easily get the details about the building. Thirdly, the users can set a route in the computer and use the route when they are outside their home. When the users are at the start point of the route, they can listen to the route detail first before they have a walk.