Robotic guide for the visually impaired through Bluetooth and obstacle avoidance using Arduino

Wina  Wong; Malathy  Batumalay; Balasubramaniam  Muniandy; Pavan Kumar  Pagadala; Vinoth Kumar P

doi:10.18488/76.v12i3.4436

Authors

Wina Wong Faculty of Data Science and Information Technology, INTI International University, 71800 Nilai, Malaysia.
Malathy Batumalay Faculty of Data Science and Information Technology, and Centre for Data Science and Sustainable Technologies, INTI International University, Nilai, N. Sembilan, Malaysia. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3465-1878
Balasubramaniam Muniandy Faculty of Data Science and Information Technology, INTI International University, 71800 Nilai, Malaysia. https://orcid.org/0009-0003-5521-791X
Pavan Kumar Pagadala Faculty of Data Science and Information Technology, INTI International University, 71800 Nilai, Malaysia, and Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation, Hyderabad-500075, Telangana, India. https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1434-0447
Vinoth Kumar P Faculty of Data Science and Information Technology, INTI International University, 71800 Nilai, Malaysia, and Sri Krishna College of Engineering and Technology, Coimbatore, India. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7206-7202

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18488/76.v12i3.4436

Abstract

Visual impairment continues to affect a significant portion of the global population, with over 2.2 billion people experiencing some level of vision loss. Conventional aids such as white canes and guide dogs provide essential support but have notable limitations in certain environments. To address this gap, a robotic guide was developed using Arduino-based components, offering real-time obstacle detection through ultrasonic and infrared sensors. Audio feedback is transmitted via a Bluetooth-connected mobile application, and vibration alerts are included for individuals with hearing impairments. The system features a joystick for directional control and incorporates RFID-based security to prevent unauthorized access. Functionality tests with users indicate strong potential for improving navigational independence and safety in urban and controlled settings. The design emphasizes practicality, accessibility, and user adaptability for product innovation.