Design and analysis of a novel sonar-based obstacle-avoidance system for the visually impaired and unmanned systems

Electronic Travel Aids have evolved over the years through multi-disciplinary research fundamentally using ultrasonic, infrared, imaging, GPS etc., but such technology outreach in India has been almost absent. This paper, based on an extensive research and literature survey carried out by the authors during the development of an obstacle avoiding ultrasonic belt, focuses on using the sonar technique through an innovative design to efficiently detect an immediate environment ahead. Attempts to understand the design and orientation of components have been made to convey the novelty of device. A deep scientific clarity is drawn on the basic theory of obstacle-detection and communication using the components incorporated in the authors' prototype. The drawbacks of the system and the scope of future development have also been discussed. The system promises to compliment the GPS, Blind Canes and Blind Dogs as well as unmanned navigation systems.