Assistive Technology for Integrating the Visually-Impaired in Mainstream Education and Society

摘要

The paper presents a comprehensive assistive technology tool, designed and implemented to support the various challenges faced by Visually Impaired (VI) individuals in day-to-day life. The system comprises of smart glasses, processing unit and smart phone application; providing the VI individual with a convenient and cost-effective solution; unlike the conventional methods of Braille-based systems and white stick. The features are developed to facilitate VI with reading in English and Arabic, in-door navigation and face recognition; thus empowering them to lead an independent life. It is also targeted towards enabling the VI to gain professional education and be part of the regular work force. The developed system was tested with the people having visual impairments and was well appreciated.