Research by Female Students of MVP Polytechnic College
M. T. Representative, Nashik
To help visually impaired individuals live safer, more confident, and independent lives, female students of Maratha Vidya Prasarak (MVP) Samaj’s Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj Polytechnic College have developed an artificial intelligence (AI)-based “EyeCan Smart Stick.” This innovative system detects obstacles in real-time and alerts the user, making it far more effective than traditional white canes. It will help make daily movement for visually impaired individuals much safer.
Third-year polytechnic students Anandi Ghule, Tanushree Bachhav, Rudrani Chavan, and Anushka Gatkal developed this project under the guidance of Principal Prashant Patil, Head of Department P. D. Boraste, and Prof. B. B. Handge. Visually impaired individuals will receive numerous benefits from this smart stick. Identifying obstacles in real-time, receiving clear audio notifications, and navigating safely will help boost the user’s confidence. Keeping in mind the limitations of traditional white canes, modern technology has been incorporated into this smart stick. The students expressed confidence that this system will prove safer and highly useful for visually impaired individuals, reducing reliance on others and making daily life smoother and more independent.
How the ‘EyeCan’ System Works:
This system includes a Raspberry Pi, ultrasonic sensors, a Pi camera, and an audio output system.
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Ultrasonic sensors identify obstacles in front of the user and measure their distance.
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The Pi camera captures images of surrounding objects, and artificial intelligence (AI) technology identifies what those objects are.
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This information is provided to the user in audio form, with alerts such as “Obstacle Detected” or “Chair Detected.”
As a result, visually impaired individuals can easily understand their surrounding environment and move around with greater safety.