It is no doubt that getting around is the most challenging aspect of a newly blinded person, so Mobility and orientation module is included In almost all rehab programs for blinds. Hence I also had received the white cane training at the army rehabilitation centre, but I have yet been struggling to get around independently in an unfamiliar environment. However there are blind folks who use the white cane quite effectively. My incompetence in using white cane could well be the result of lack of usage as I had the privilege of obtaining assistance from soldiers for where ever I wanted to go. Also there is another factor that hindered my mobility skills was that the fear of vehicles may run in to me as it is often said that even sighted person find it extremely difficult to get around on road these days. All in all this article mainly will focus on electronic devises that help the blind to improve their independent traveling, but I felt that it is required to write bit about white cane and how it is used by blind as it will give an idea to the readers who are not blind.

White cane

The long white cane has been a symbol of blind persons around the world. This simple device has helped millions of blind persons find their way towards the place they want to go to.
Although the device is a simple one, it has a learning curve that requires the service of a qualified mobility and orientation instructor in order to methodically train it to the blind.
Basically Mobility and orientation training for blind or visually impaired will last from 3 to 6 months, depending upon individual circumstances and needs. They are taught how to use the long white cane to locate curbs, landmarks, and other items to help them identify where they are, and how to listen to traffic flow patterns to determine when it is safer to cross.
Blind people tap their canes on sidewalks, floors, and streets. They learn to identify the locations of things-like steps, walls, or doors-simply by the different sounds that their cane taps make.

Some will count steps (5 steps to the front door, go outside, turn left, 15 steps to the cafeteria), some will count landmarks such as trees, flower beds, and posts. And it is also required to memorize the frequently traveled routes in order to get to the destination more effectively.

Taking the concept of the white cane, developers of assistive technologies have made several electronic devices such as personal GPS units and ultra Sonic Mobility Device to enhance the traveling experience of persons who are blind. Most of these devices should be used in conjunction with the cane, dog Guide or other mobility aids.

Laser Cane

This is an electronic cane that uses invisible laser beams to detect obstacles, drop offs, and similar hazards in the surroundings. Once the cane detects the obstacle or drop off using the laser beams, it will produce a specific audio signal. The cane has three distinct audio signals; each one indicates a specific distance. The audio signal informs the user of the distance of the obstacle or the height of the drop off. This device can detect objects and hazards up to a distance of 12 feet.

A part of the cane’s handle also vibrates when there is an object in front of the user. The laser cane is suitable for persons who are blind and persons who are deaf blind. It can be used on its own. However, mobility experts strongly recommend that blind persons first learn the use of the long white cane before using the laser cane.

Ultrasonic obstacle detection Eye Glasses

The glasses are designed to be used as a secondary mobility device alongside a cane or guide dog. Worn like spectacles. The glasses provide vibration feedback when you near a potential hazard at head and chest height.
When you approach obstacles such as over grown branches, hanging signs and baskets, the frequency of the vibration will increase – giving you more confidence to explore your surroundings.
It detects obstacles up to 3 meters (10 feet) away and vibration gradually increases in frequency as you get closer to an obstacle, up to a distance of 0.7 meters (2 feet) when the vibration becomes continuous.
There are few ultra sonic mobility devises available in the market for blind, if you are interested in do search in google and you will be able to find more details about them. Watch following youtube video to see how ultra sonic eye glasses are used.

GPS Devices for the Blind

Although mainly used in identifying one’s location, GPS (Global Positioning System) devices also help blind persons in traveling independently. Blind persons can use portable GPS systems to determine and verify the correct travel route. They can use these devices whether they are walking or riding a vehicle.

GPS devices for the blind include screen readers so the user can hear the information. In addition to that built-in speech recognition enables you to enter addresses, change navigation modes, listen to music and control all its functions and features just using your voice.