Description

This is an advanced navigation application designed for individuals who are blind or visually impaired, offering dual-mode assistance. There are map mode and recognition mode. The main purpose of the recognition mode is to compensate for the inability of GPS navigation to help the blind and visually impaired to accurately locate and guide to specific access. Initially, the map mode utilizes standard navigation features to guide users to their destination. Upon nearing the target location, users can switch to recognition mode, where computer vision processes real-time camera input and cross-references it with Google Street View data. When the desired entrance has been identified, the app delivers precise voice prompts (e.g., “The destination is 2 meters away at your two o’clock position.”), ensuring accurate final positioning in scenarios where traditional navigation systems fall short.  

While other navigation apps for blind and visually impaired users, such as BlindSquare and Soundscape, are available, they have limitations. BlindSquare relies heavily on map accuracy and lacks the ability to identify specific entrances, while Soundscape provides no visual analytics, relying solely on geographic data.  

Compared to traditional travel methods, which involve the use of a white cane and standard navigation tools, this app addresses a critical challenge faced by visually impaired individuals: the difficulty of locating specific entrances after reaching the general vicinity of their destination.

Presenter

Ning Li