Chandigarh University Students Develop Smart Glasses for the Visually Impaired

The device, designed to assist in avoiding accidents by enabling obstacle detection, is the first of its kind in India.

Two students from Chandigarh University, Amit Ranjan and Simran Thakur, have developed innovative Smart Glasses for visually impaired. 

The device, designed to assist in avoiding accidents by enabling obstacle detection, is the first-of-its-kind in India. The development aims to improve the safety and independence of visually impaired individuals in navigating public spaces.

According to a research paper, over 88% of visually impaired people experience accidents during their lifetime. The students designed these glasses to mitigate this risk, offering a safer means of navigating daily life.

How Do Smart Glasses Work?

The Smart Glasses are built with an Arduino Nano microcontroller, an ultrasonic sensor, a buzzer, a haptic feedback motor, a lithium-ion battery, a step-up module, connecting wires, and a charging module. 

The ultrasonic sensor is responsible for detecting surrounding objects and relaying this data to the Arduino Nano.

When an obstacle is within a certain range, the Arduino Nano triggers the buzzer and haptic motor. The buzzer sends auditory signals, while the haptic motor generates tactile feedback. 

This combination allows the user to discern the position of the obstacle, thus enabling them to navigate safely. The charging module ensures the battery can be charged safely, allowing continuous use of the glasses.

“We wanted to create something that could make a real difference in the lives of those who are visually impaired. These glasses are designed to help them move freely and safely in public spaces without constant fear of accidents,” Ranjan stated.

Ranjan and Thakur have also filed for patent rights for their Smart Glasses. The glasses enhance mobility for the visually impaired while also contributing to their overall safety and independence.

“The healthcare sector is rapidly evolving, and we believe our Smart Glasses can play a significant role in enhancing the lives of visually impaired individuals. By offering a simple yet effective solution, we aim to reduce the number of accidents and give users greater confidence in their daily lives,” Thakur added.

The potential of these Smart Glasses extends beyond personal use. If widely adopted, they could reduce the burden on caregivers and healthcare providers by enabling visually impaired individuals to navigate public spaces more independently. 

Furthermore, the technology could be integrated into other assistive devices, broadening its application within the healthcare sector.