An FPGA-based portable real-time obstacle detection and notification system

Abstract

There are abundant accounts of research relating to obstacle detection using vision sensors. Finding a solution that is low-power, easily portable, low-cost, and still effective is a challenge. Overcoming this challenge will help millions whether it is through improving assistive technology for the visually impaired, autonomous robot navigation, or another application. This paper presents the design and implementation of such a system. The architecture consists of an array of ultrasonic sensors to survey the scene, FPGA chip for data processing, and, in this scenario, vibration motors to indicate the obstacle direction. The system will be attached to a belt that can be used by a user. The FPGA is used to process the data coming from the ultrasonic sensors to detect the surrounding obstacles' distances. Accordingly, the FPGA will send the signal to the corresponding vibration motors to indicate the direction of the nearby obstacles. The experimental results validate the proposed system.