A feasibility study of a compact radar system for autonomous walking of blind people

In this contribution, recent developments in the design and development of a novel compact smart radar for visually impaired and blind users are described. Starting from previous studies and according to the specific user requirements, a new antenna (dimensions: 54mm × 8.4mm × 1.44mm) and an integrated Tx/Rx circuit board, working in the 24–26 GHz frequency band, have been designed; the aim of these improvements is twofold: the miniaturization of the whole system allowing its integration onto a traditional white cane and a drastic reduction of the dimensions, weight and final costs of the system by using existing and available technologies.