A Real-time Localization System Using RFID for Visually Impaired

TL;DR

This paper presents a real-time RFID-based localization system for the visually impaired that improves mobility and safety while addressing privacy and usability concerns through innovative tag design and tactile information delivery.

Contribution

It introduces a novel RFID tag allocation scheme, tactile information conveyance method, and a hybrid power source, enhancing accessibility and safety for the visually impaired.

Findings

Improved independent mobility and accident prevention.

Reduced stress and enhanced user satisfaction.

Cost-effective and human-friendly design.

Abstract

Gadgets helping the disabled, especially blind that are in least accessibility of information, use acoustic methods that can cause stress to ear and infringe user's privacy. Even if some project uses embedded Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) into the sidewalk for blind's free walking, the tag memory design is not specified for buildings and road conditions. This paper suggested allocation scheme of RFID tag referring to EPCglobal SGLN, tactile method for conveying information, and use of lithium battery as power source with solar cells as an alternative. Results have shown independent mobility, accidents prevention, stress relief and satisfied factors in terms of cost and human usability.