Design and Implementation of a Smart Shoe for the Visually Impaired

ABSTRACT As technology continues to evolve at breakneck speed, it is opening new frontiers in how people living with disabilities are empowered. For those who are visually impaired, navigating the world safely and independently is not just a hurdle it is a major frontier where innovation is urgently needed. Hence, the need to design and implement a smart shoe for visually impaired persons. The smart shoe incorporates ultrasonic sensors, a microcontroller, GPS tracking, and a sound/vibration alert system to help users detect obstacles and navigate safely. The research methodology involved system design, hardware integration, software programming, and rigorous testing in various environments to assess the accuracy, efficiency, and usability of the smart shoe. The findings showed that the system effectively detects obstacles within a predefined range and provides timely feedback to the user, significantly improving their movement and awareness of surroundings. While the project achieved its primary objectives, challenges such as sensor limitations in detecting soft obstacles and minor GPS inaccuracies in enclosed spaces were identified. Future improvements could include incorporating additional sensor technologies, optimizing battery consumption, and enhancing user feedback mechanisms. This research contributes to the growing field of assistive technology, offering a practical and innovative solution that can significantly improve the quality of life for visually impaired individuals, fostering greater independence and confidence in their mobility.