Divya-Dristi: A Smartphone based Campus Navigation System for the Visually Impaired

University campuses in India lack assistive systems that facilitate smooth navigation of visually impaired persons. This paper proposes design of a system called Divya-Dristi, that helps visually impaired persons navigate familiar environments such as a university campus. The system requires users to carry only a Android based smart phone. Based on a 3-tier architecture, we aim to develop a conveyable, self-contained system that provide dynamic interactions. The major functional components of this way finding system are (a) an Android application for determining the users position and orientation in space and for generating audio feedback (b) a cloud based geo-spatial data store for holding key location information and answering location queries, (c) a SONAR based sensor module attachment that helps users avoid possible obstacles during outdoor navigation through audio and haptic alerts. The system has been implemented and found to be convenient for the users.