Arduino Based DIY Smart Cane

This tutorial is based on an open source Arduino project for a Smart Cane that assists blind people to walk alone anywhere with the help of inputs provided through an obstacle sensor and giving feedback through haptics (vibration motor). The device is affordable and can be easily replicated in couple of hours.

This device automatically detects the obstacle while walking and provide feedback by letting the walking stick vibrate along with a warning sound. The equipment needed for this project are Arduino UNO, Ultrasonic sensor (HCSR04), Mini breadboard, 9 volt battery connector, DC male power jack, Buzzer, jumper wires, a broken cellphone for the vibration motor, a Toggle switch and other peripheral devices.

How does it Work?

After the micro vibration motor is removed from the cell phone, it is soldered on a small piece of general purpose PCB along with two wires to the terminals of the motor. The wiring for Arduino is simple and a mini breadboard is used to connect the ultrasonic sensor to the Arduino using jumper wires. While buzzer, motor, and other parts are directly connected to the Arduino.

After wiring the sketch for the Arduino Smart Cane is uploaded, which is available here. Now, the Arduino Smart Cane is prepared using a PVC pipe or a walking stick available at home. Then the components are attached on the Smart Cane using a box that can adjust all electronics together.

The Arduino is fixed in the box using screws along with the buzzer outside of the box. Then the toggle switch is attached at the side of the box and a vibration motor to Arduino. After the battery is fixed, the power jack is connected to the Arduino. Finally, the box is glued to the stick.

Check out the following link for complete details.