2002 · 270 citations · 18 references
MedicineAutonomous SystemsRobotics EngineeringAssistive TechnologyMobile RoboticsRoboticsAssistive DevicesAssistive RoboticsMobility AidsObstacle DetectionPedestrian WayfindingWayfindingAssistive Wayfinding SystemsGuidanceNavigation Assistance SystemsNavigation Assistive DevicesPedestrian NavigationUltrasonic SensorsWayfinding Assistive SystemsWayfinding For Blind Users
The GuideCane is a novel travel aid that enables blind or visually impaired pedestrians to navigate safely and quickly around obstacles and hazards. It consists of a long handle with a steerable, two‑wheeled sensor head equipped with ultrasonic sensors that detect obstacles and automatically steer the cane as the user pushes it forward. Users report feeling a clear steering force through the handle and can follow the cane’s path effortlessly without conscious effort.
This paper introduces the GuideCane, a novel device designed to help blind or visually impaired travellers to navigate safely and quickly among obstacles and other hazards faced by blind pedestrians. The GuideCane, currently under development at the University of Michigan's Mobile Robotics Lab, comprises of a long handle and a "sensor head" unit that is attached at the distal end of the handle. The sensor head is mounted on a steerable but unpowered two-wheeled steering axle. During operation, the user pushes the lightweight GuideCane ahead of him/her. Ultrasonic sensors mounted on the sensor head detect obstacles and steer the device around it. The user feels the steering command as a very noticeable physical force through the handle and is able to follow the GuideCane's path easily and without any conscious effort.
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Artificial intelligence: a modern approach
Choice Reviews Online · 1995 · 22.2K citations · Full text
Using occupancy grids for mobile robot perception and navigation
Alberto Elfes · Computer · 1989 · 2.2K citations