Advancing Mobility for the Visually Impaired: A Virtual Sound-Based Navigation Simulator Interface

The study investigates a specialized voice navigation system designed for visually impaired users, enhancing voice guidance clarity and accuracy using virtual navigation simulator from autonomous driving systems. It examines the comprehension and proficiency of visually impaired individuals with voice-guided systems, involving a novel voice guide model that incorporates auditory beacons for more effective guidance. The evaluation involved seven visually impaired participants whose feedback was crucial in assessing the system’s practicality and efficiency. Results indicated that all participants successfully reached their destinations using the model, showcasing a significant enhancement in navigation aid for visually impaired users. This research contributes to assistive technologies by offering insights into developing more effective and user-friendly navigation systems, emphasizing the importance of user-centric design to meet the specific needs of visually impaired individuals.