Project Members
Zachary Holly
Llewellyn Morgan
David Graham
The objective of this project was to build an active navigation device for a blind person. This device had to be able to safely lead a person with impaired vision through a highly populated obstacle course. When we first started the design process for this project our group looked at existing technology for inspiration. One of the most effective assistive technologies for the vision impaired is the guide dog. The main disadvantage with guide dogs is cost. We attempted to create a low cost device that could do the same job as a dog .
The device was used by tucking the end of the handle underneth the users arm, this was done to inhance directional feedback. Our strategy was to detect the absence of objects and adjust the steering in that direction. We used the ultrasonic sensors for micro navigation and a gyroscope for macro navigation. We also implemented haptic feedback to inform the user of an immediate obstacle.
The shell, gear and fairings were 3D printed using SLS technology. The handle is aluminium and the hand control and docking port was fabricated with an UP printer (FDM). The gear and fairing assembly was printed as one part.
Above is the handle, providing a power switch powers and bearing button for the gyroscope. Inside is a haptic feedback motor.
Above is the programming and charging ports.
Above and below shows the wheel hub and gear caster. This was 3D printed (SLS) as one part.
