DEVELOPMENT OF A MICROCONTROLLER-DRIVEN OBSTACLE DETECTION AND NAVIGATION SMART EYEGLASSES FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED

Authors

  • O. A. Olubunmi

    Department of Computer Engineering, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria.

  • O. F. Awe

    Department of Computer Engineering, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria

  • T. R. Ayeni

    Department of Computer Engineering, Federal University Oye, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria.

  • O. J. Ogundipe

    Department of Mechanical Engineering, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria.

DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51459/futajeet.2026.20.Special.595
Keywords:
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Abstract

For persons with visual impairment, taking part in day-to-day activities can be especially challenging, because their physical limitations also put them at a greater risk of falling. In some cases, it can be life-threatening. We present an innovative assistive device that intends to help blind people in wayfinding and determining the presence of objects, especially at face-level, as well as for alerting them about dangerous situations. This obstacle avoidance and navigation system, based on an ATmega328 Arduino microcontroller, is intended for blind pedestrians.  This device uses ultrasonic sensors, which detect obstacles nearby, allowing safe and easy manoeuvrability in risky places. Attached is a buzzer that produces auditory alerts for impending danger. The main component is the Arduino Uno board, which holds the ATmega328 microcontroller essential for control and coordination of the system. The whole system in the form of smart eyeglasses weighs merely 73 grams, runs on a 3.7-volt battery and, has an obstacle detection range of 59.97 cm. The ultrasonic sensor sends a signal to the microcontroller when it detects an obstacle within the 59.97 cm range. The microcontroller processes this input and activates the buzzer output components. The buzzer will give audio alerts, providing an auditory alert to the user regarding the obstacle through these alerts.  The main objective of the system that is being proposed is to improve the user awareness regarding their path, along with detecting and informing any obstacles that may come their way.

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Published
2026-04-18
Issue
Vol. 20 No. Special (2026): FUTA JEET: Special Issue on Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Living and Environmental Challenges: Engineering Perspectives
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How to Cite

DEVELOPMENT OF A MICROCONTROLLER-DRIVEN OBSTACLE DETECTION AND NAVIGATION SMART EYEGLASSES FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED. (2026). FUTA JOURNAL OF ENGINEERING AND ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY, 20(Special), 166-173. https://doi.org/10.51459/futajeet.2026.20.Special.595

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