Acoustic Signal Generators for Blind Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing route guidance technologies for individuals with impaired vision are inadequate, particularly for those who are blind, as they rely on device orientation and local information, which can lead to confusion and increased complexity with multiple RFID devices.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing spatially distributed signal generators that emit audible acoustic signals, allowing individuals to navigate by following directional sounds, with parameters like volume and frequency optimized for better localization, and the ability to customize signals through a mobile device application, enabling flexible and cost-effective implementation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If visual or acoustic information is communicated locally by the mobile device, then the person receives guidance information, but the interpretation becomes ambiguous when the person changes orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces signal generators as intermediary devices that emit acoustic signals at fixed locations throughout the environment. These signals serve as mediators between the navigation system and the user, providing directional cues that are independent of the mobile device's orientation. The signal generators create an acoustic field that guides the user toward the destination without requiring the user to interpret device-oriented visual or acoustic information.
2Measurement precision
If additional RFID devices are added to determine position, then position determination is achieved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the signal generators serve multiple functions: they act as both position reference points for determining the user's location and as guidance beacons that emit directional acoustic signals. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate RFID devices, as the same infrastructure provides both positioning and navigation guidance, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the positioning function and guidance function into a single integrated system. The signal generators that mark locations are also the sources of guidance signals, merging what would traditionally be separate components (position detection infrastructure and navigation guidance infrastructure) into one unified system.
3Loss of information
If acoustic signals are generated at remote locations, then unique directional guidance is provided, but the system requires distributed signal generators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the navigation system into multiple distributed signal generators placed at specific locations throughout the environment. Each signal generator operates independently, emitting acoustic signals that provide localized directional information. This segmentation allows the system to provide unique guidance at each location while maintaining overall system simplicity through standardized, independent units.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides clear, unique, and customizable navigation for individuals with impaired vision, reducing confusion and complexity by using remote signal generators, enhancing the ability to navigate safely and efficiently without relying on device orientation or local information.
Implementation Method 1
a signal generator is identified, which is the next one that will be reached by the person based on their current position. A control command is sent to the identified signal generator, wherein the control command causes the identified signal generator to generate a signal that is perceptible by the person
Data Source
AI summary
In order to guide a person along a path, audible acoustic signals are used, which are generated by signal generators arranged in an area. The person can orient themselves in the area using these acoustic signals. As the person moves along the path towards a destination, the signal generator arranged next in line on the path generates an acoustic signal, in which direction the person can then move. A signal generator generates an acoustic signal of this type, when it receives a control command from a mobile device carried with the person or from a control device.