Portable traveling support system using image processing for the visually impaired

We have previously proposed a portable navigation system for the visually impaired (see Nakamura, K. et al., IEICE Trans. of Japan, vol.J79, p.1610-18, 1996; Takuno, S. et al., IEICE Trans. of Japan, vol.J83, p.293-302, 2000). However, there are some places where this system is unable to provide proper guidance. Since the traveling direction of the traveler in this system is measured by a terrestrial magnetism sensor, there is a possibility that the wrong direction is measured, due to the distortion of the terrestrial magnetism by vehicles, etc. Road markings, e.g., pedestrian crossing, white line of the road, are reliable information to measure the correct direction. Furthermore, street landmarks, e.g., electric pole, traffic-control sign and post box, are also useful for a traveler to confirm his position. Therefore, we have now adequately applied image processing to our portable navigation system to make it more reliable.