Smart Walker

Abstract

Smart Walker is an intelligent mobility assistance system developed to support visually impaired and elderly individuals during daily navigation. The project aims to enhance user safety, independence, and environmental awareness through the integration of sensing, embedded systems, and artificial intelligence technologies. The system combines an OAK-D camera for object detection and recognition with a LiDAR sensor for obstacle detection and distance measurement. Sensor data are processed by a Raspberry Pi to determine safe navigation paths, while an Arduino Mega manages steering assistance, braking control, authentication, and monitoring functions. Real-time voice guidance is provided to inform users about surrounding obstacles and detected objects. Additional features include RFID-based authorization, banknote recognition, battery monitoring, guardian monitoring, and automatic lighting control. Experimental testing demonstrated the system's ability to reliably detect obstacles, recognize objects, provide navigation assistance, and perform integrated safety functions. The developed prototype offers a practical and cost-effective assistive solution that improves mobility, safety, and quality of life for visually impaired and elderly users.